'Thank the Times of India committee': Ravi Dahiya shares emotional message at TOISA 2025

LUCKNOW: In an evening defined by high-octane celebrations and elite sporting achievements, Olympic silver medalist Ravi Dahiya, who was one of the presenters of the event, provided one of the most grounded and poignant moments at the Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) 2025. Speaking at the eighth edition of the gala in Lucknow, the wrestling icon shared a heartfelt message that resonated with both the legendary jury and the budding athletes in the audience.Dahiya, known for his stoic demeanour and relentless engine on the mat, took the stage to acknowledge the platform provided by TOISA. He praised the awards for their ability to unite the absolute best of Indian sports under one roof, fostering a sense of community among athletes from diverse disciplines. "First of all, I would like to thank all of you. And I would like to thank the Times of India committee," Dahiya said, addressing the packed house. "You have brought the cream [creme de la creme] of our country all together. Thank you very much for that."The 2025 edition of TOISA, held in the presence of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and a jury featuring legends like Abhinav Bindra and Mithali Raj, served as a "sporting renaissance" for the nation. For Dahiya, the gathering represented more than just a ceremony; it was a testament to the depth of talent currently driving India’s global sporting ambitions.Reflecting on the gruelling journey of an elite athlete, a theme encapsulated by this year's "More Sweat, More Glory" motto, Dahiya offered a simple yet profound piece of advice to his peers."As a player, I won't say much. I will just say that no matter what you do, whether it is a game or anything else, when you work with discipline and good intentions, God always supports you. Thank you," Dahiya added.Dahiya’s words carried extra weight considering the physical and mental hurdles he has navigated in recent years, including injury setbacks and a highly competitive domestic landscape.As the nation looks toward the 2026 Asian Games and beyond, Dahiya’s message serves as a timely reminder that while medals are won on the stage, the foundation is built on the unwavering discipline he champions so dearly.