In a landmark moment for Indian sports, Monu Goyat emerged as the most expensive non-cricket athlete in the country during the 2018 Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) auction. The Haryana Steelers secured the star raider’s services for a record-breaking ₹1.51 crore, surpassing the previous highest bid for a non-cricket sportsperson in any Indian franchise-based league.
This historic bid eclipsed the ₹1.50 crore contract of Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri with Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League, making Goyat the highest-paid non-cricket athlete in Indian sports at the time.
Goyat’s ascent in the kabaddi world has been remarkable. After debuting with the Bengal Warriors in Season 4, he showcased his prowess with the Patna Pirates in Season 5, amassing 202 points in 26 matches. His consistent performances made him a coveted player, leading to a fierce bidding war among franchises during the auction.
Hailing from Bhiwani, Haryana, Goyat’s journey from a Services athlete to the pinnacle of Indian kabaddi underscores the sport’s growing prominence and the increasing recognition of talent beyond cricket.
The 2018 PKL auction not only highlighted Goyat’s individual achievements but also marked a significant moment for kabaddi in India, reflecting its evolution into a major professional sport with substantial financial investments.
