Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal has opened up about the mental health challenges he faced during the final phase of his marriage, revealing that he suffered from anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
The leg-spinner, speaking on a podcast for the first time since his divorce from choreographer Dhanashree Verma, said the past few years had been some of the most difficult of his life.
“I was having anxiety attacks, I was depressed, I was having suicidal thoughts,” Chahal said. “Due to anxiety, my body would start shaking, I would sweat even though the AC was running in the room.”
Chahal and Dhanashree were married for nearly five years before officially parting ways in March 2024. The cricketer said their separation stemmed from fundamental differences in temperament and life priorities.
“Relationships require compromise, but when two people are very different, things don’t work. I was playing for India, and she was busy in her own world — we couldn’t give time to each other,” he said. “This had been going on for a year or two.”
Chahal admitted that during the Vijay Hazare Trophy season (Dec 2023–Jan 2024), he requested time off from his state team to focus on his mental health.
“Every day, I used to think — two strong-headed people can’t always stay together. Everyone has their own life and goals. I couldn’t manage both — my career and the relationship,” he explained.
While discussing the breakdown of his marriage, the 34-year-old also addressed public perception and social media scrutiny. He said that despite keeping the divorce private for a long time, online speculation and accusations had deeply hurt him.
“People started calling me a cheater,” he said. “I’ve never cheated anyone in my life. I’m loyal. When people accuse you without knowing the truth, it really affects you.”
Chahal revealed that he struggled with emotional expression throughout his relationship and admitted it was a personal flaw. “I don’t talk much, I don’t express either happiness or sadness. That’s something I’m working on now.”
He also said that he had always treated his partner with respect, never resorting to verbal or physical abuse.
“I have two sisters, and I’ve grown up with them. My parents taught me how to respect women,” he added. “Just because my name is associated with someone, doesn’t mean people can write anything about me for views.”
Chahal’s divorce drew further criticism after he was seen wearing a T-shirt with a cryptic message during a court appearance, which some interpreted as mocking his former wife. However, he defended his actions, saying his appearance reflected a sense of relief rather than any mockery.
“When the divorce happened, I was happy because I had come out of the worst phase. People saw my smile and assumed I was making fun, but I was simply free from pain.”
The situation worsened when Dhanashree released a music video shortly after their divorce, featuring themes of infidelity and domestic abuse. The timing sparked fresh allegations against Chahal, which he categorically denied.
“I have never been unfaithful. I’m not that kind of person,” he reiterated. “People just kept accusing me without knowing anything.”
Chahal said the period following the divorce took a heavy toll on his mental health.
“For 40 to 45 days, I would cry for two hours and sleep for only two,” he shared. “I told a friend about my suicidal thoughts. I was scared. I needed a break from cricket.”
