What It Took for This Small-Town Boy to Become a Kho Kho  World Cup Champion

7  May 2025

Credits: Instagram

“Nee Sadhichita da!”—You’ve done it, boy! These words echoed in Subramani’s mind as he lifted the Kho Kho World Cup trophy, a dream turned reality.

Credits: Pexels

Growing up in Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, Subramani's parents — his father, a lorry driver, and mother, a daily wage worker — instilled in him the value of hard work.

Initially drawn to volleyball, Subramani’s elder brother, Saravanan, nudged him towards Kho Kho. Though his talent had shone early, a four-year hiatus during high school tested his resolve.

His athletic journey reignited when he enrolled at PSG Arts and Science College. There, he balanced academic study in Tamil Literature with rigorous Kho Kho training.

In 2019, he was picked by Krishnagiri Hunting Eagles in the Tamil Nadu Kho Kho Premier League, earning the Best Attacker award. “It’s similar to an IPL auction but without the money,” he explains.

In 2021, standout performances earned him a spot in the national coaching camp, a pivotal step towards his World Cup dream

Around the same time, the Ultimate Kho Kho League saw him play for Telugu Yoddhas and later, Gujarat Giants, clinching the championship in the second season.

Despite missing junior-level matches and the Khelo India Youth Games, Subramani's determination never wavered.

Credits: Facebook

When the selection was confirmed, emotions overwhelmed him. “When I knew that I was going to represent Team India in the World Cup – it was a surreal realisation,” recalls Subramani.

Credits: Business Standard

Subramani’s late grandmother, Sundari, had always believed in him. “She always told me, ‘You play, I am here to support you.’”

Finally, on 19 January 2025, all the effort paid off when Subramani stood victorious as India clinched the Kho Kho World Cup, defeating Nepal 54–36 in the finals.