Every year, 29th August is celebrated as Sports Day in India to honor the legendary hockey player - Major Dhyan Chand who was a hockey player, who won many medals for India in the Olympics and was also known as the greatest hockey play in the history of sports! Here’s a list of 7 unknown facts of your favorite Indian sportsmen. They are killing it at International Games but their journey is what will inspire you even more! Behind the amazing records and achievements, they have some sweet unknown facts that will make you fall in love with them even more! To get started with your workout, try OnePass. Use code : ARTSELECT to get an exclusive discount on OnePass Virtual

1. Saina Nehwal is ranked 18th on the list of most charitable athletes!

The Indian badminton singles player, Saina Nehwal who has won more than 24 international games, is not limiting her resources to just badminton. She is ranked 18th on the list of most charitable athletes and that’s what makes us respect her even more.

2. Sachin Tendulkar used to sleep with his cricket gear in his junior days.

Sometimes, the love for the game might be enough for you to reach the top! The former international cricketer broke many records in the game of cricket, making our nation proud. He started his journey from a very young age and would sleep with his cricket gear too!

3. Sania Mirza's father gave up his career in journalism to train his daughter!

Who doesn’t know the famous tennis player from India, Saina Mirza? but what people don’t know is that she started playing tennis at the age of 6 with her father's support. He gave up his career to guide his daughter. Sometimes all you need is someone to believe in you and that's what Saina Mirza's dad did for her! Look where she has reached now!

4. Virat Koli was included in the 10 Best Dressed International Men in 2012 alongside US President Barrack Obama!

Virat Koli, the current captain of the Indian cricket team who is regarded as the best batsman in the world has not only made it to the top in cricket but also in the 10 Best Dressed International Men in 2012!

5. Mary Kom got her nickname from a boxing association - “Magnificent Mary”

She is the only player to have got a nickname from a renowned boxing association and not by the media or fans! The International Amateur Boxing Association noticed and acknowledged her struggle in women’s boxing and gave her that title!

6. Prakash Padokune beat his idol in the Swedish Open.

Wow! Imagine looking up to someone your entire life and then getting a chance to play against them? Now not only did he get a chance to play against his idol - Rudy Hartono but he also won!

7. Bhaichung Bhutia won a scholarship in football from SAI at the age of 9!

Also known as the Sikkimese Sniper, Bhaichung Bhutia’s love for football started at such an early age that his efforts and talent was recognized and he was awarded a scholarship in football from The Sports Authority of India when he was just 9 years old! 

These sportsmen didn’t have a bed of roses, they overcame every obstacle that came to their way.

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