Yuzvendra Chahal Breaks Silence on Divorce, Opens Up About Depression and Mental Health Struggles.
Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal has spoken candidly for the first time about the emotional toll of his divorce from Dhanashree Verma, revealing that he experienced depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts during the final months of their marriage.
The couple, who had been married for nearly five years, were officially granted a divorce by the Bombay High Court on March 20, 2025. In a heartfelt conversation on the Raj Shamani Podcast, Chahal shared how the breakdown of his relationship deeply affected his mental health, prompting him to step away from cricket temporarily.
“I got anxiety attacks, I was in depression. I had suicidal thoughts. I saw so many things about myself on social media. I wanted a break from cricket. I would shiver with anxiety and sweat even in air conditioning,” Chahal revealed.
The leg-spinner said he took a break from domestic cricket during the Vijay Hazare Trophy (December 2024 – January 2025) to focus on his mental well-being.
“We Were No Longer Compatible”
Reflecting on the end of the marriage, Chahal said that despite their efforts, differences in lifestyle and priorities made it difficult to sustain the relationship. “A relationship requires compromise. Sometimes, two people just don’t match. I was playing for India, she was focused on her work, and we barely saw each other. This went on for a couple of years,” he explained.
He admitted that as both partners became more engrossed in their individual careers, the emotional disconnect widened. “You work 18–20 years to build a life—you can’t leave that behind. Ambitious people can be together, but they need to support each other. That’s where we couldn’t align,” he said.
Acknowledging Personal Shortcomings
When asked about his own flaws in the relationship, Chahal admitted he struggled with emotional expression—something he is actively trying to improve. “I don’t speak much, and I don’t express emotions easily—whether it’s happiness or sadness. I’ve realized that was a problem. I’m working on that now,” he said.
Chahal added that while he rarely gets angry, when he does, it can be intense. However, he clarified that he has never been abusive or disrespectful in conflicts.
Responding to Social Media Criticism
Chahal also addressed the criticism he faced online after the divorce, particularly after being seen smiling and wearing a controversial T-shirt during his court appearance. “When the divorce was finalized, I was happy. Not because of the end, but because I had survived the worst. Some people couldn’t digest that and started judging me,” he said.
On Loyalty and Post-Divorce Allegations
Shortly after their separation, Dhanashree Verma released a music video dealing with themes of infidelity and domestic violence. Though the video did not directly mention Chahal, it sparked speculation online and led to accusations against him.
Chahal firmly denied the allegations, stating he had always been loyal and respectful in the relationship. “People called me a cheater, but I’ve never cheated in my life. I’m loyal, I think from the heart, and I never ask—I only give. But when people who know nothing about you start blaming you, it hurts,” he said.
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