Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal has shared his personal struggles with mental health following the breakdown of his marriage to choreographer Dhanashree Verma.
In a candid interview, Chahal revealed that he faced severe anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts during the final phase of his relationship.
The 34-year-old leg-spinner described how his mental health challenges manifested in physical symptoms. “I was having anxiety attacks, I was depressed, and I was having suicidal thoughts,” Chahal confessed.
He explained that his anxiety was so intense that it caused his body to shake and sweat, even in a cool environment.
Chahal and Dhanashree were married for nearly five years before they separated in March 2024. Chahal attributed the divorce to fundamental differences in their personalities and life priorities.
“We couldn’t give time to each other. I was playing for India, and she was busy with her own work,” he explained. “This had been going on for a year or two.”
The cricketer also admitted that the emotional strain took a toll on his performance. During the Vijay Hazare Trophy season (Dec 2023–Jan 2024), he requested time off from his state team to prioritize his mental well-being.
“I couldn’t manage both—my career and the relationship,” Chahal said, reflecting on the challenges he faced during that period.
The public scrutiny surrounding his divorce added to Chahal’s distress. The cricketer opened up about the hurtful accusations he faced online, particularly the claims that he had cheated on his wife.
“People started calling me a cheater,” Chahal said, firmly denying the allegations. He emphasized that he has always been loyal and treated his partner with respect.
Chahal also reflected on his emotional struggles during the marriage, admitting that he found it difficult to express his feelings. “I don’t talk much, I don’t express either happiness or sadness. That’s something I’m working on now,” he shared.
Following his divorce, Chahal faced further criticism when he wore a T-shirt with a cryptic message during a court appearance.
Some speculated that the T-shirt was a form of mockery towards his ex-wife. However, Chahal defended his actions, saying his appearance reflected a sense of relief rather than disrespect.
In the aftermath of the divorce, Chahal revealed how deeply the emotional toll affected his mental health. “For 40 to 45 days, I would cry for two hours and sleep for only two,” he said.
He also admitted to confiding in a friend about his suicidal thoughts, expressing how difficult that time was for him.
Chahal’s openness about his struggles highlights the importance of mental health awareness and the challenges faced by individuals in high-pressure careers. His honesty may serve as an encouragement for others to seek help and support during difficult times.
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