Suniel Shetty Reflects on KL Rahul's Impact Before Family Ties

Suniel Shetty has shared his admiration for cricketer KL Rahul, revealing that his respect for the athlete predates Rahul's relationship with his daughter, Athiya Shetty. In a recent interview, Suniel recounted his first encounter with Rahul, which he described as a moment akin to that of a devoted fan meeting a sports icon. This initial interaction left a lasting impression on Suniel, who expressed that he was not only captivated by Rahul's skills on the cricket field but also by his humble demeanor and grounded personality. Suniel's admiration for Rahul has only deepened over time, especially after the cricketer began dating Athiya and eventually married her in 2023.

In his conversation with Mid-Day, Suniel emphasized that his respect for Rahul extends beyond the cricket pitch. He noted that the cricketer's character and conduct off the field are equally significant. Suniel remarked, "It was a fanboy moment and I met him like a fan. To this day, that’s how I look at it, as somebody who’s very well-spoken, soft, humble and leaves a great impact on the youth whenever and wherever he plays." This perspective highlights Suniel's belief that athletes should serve as role models, particularly for the younger generation. He praised Rahul for maintaining his composure and politeness amidst the intense pressure that comes with representing India in cricket.