Shikhar Dhawan's mystery woman and fatherhood struggles

Former Indian cricket star Shikhar Dhawan was spotted with a mystery woman during the Champions Trophy 2025. The buzz around this incident intensified when a photo of the duo went viral, prompting media outlets to identify the woman as Sophie Shine from Ireland.

Amid playful speculation about his relationship status, a viral video surfaced in which Dhawan was subtly pressed by an anchor about his girlfriend's identity.

While initially hesitant, Dhawan eventually said, "I will not take any name. But the most beautiful girl in the room is my girlfriend." The camera then panned to the woman who was seen with Dhawan at the event, further fueling assumptions.

Off the field, Dhawan is navigating a personal challenge following his recent divorce from Aesha Mukherji in October 2023, where custody of his 11-year-old son, Zoraver, was granted to his ex-wife. Although Dhawan was allowed visitation rights and video call connectivity, he faces restrictions that prevent him from seeing or speaking to Zoraver.

Expressing his emotional struggles, Dhawan shared insights into his unique way of maintaining a connection with his son during an episode of the ANI podcast.

“It has been two years since I've seen my son and one year since I last spoke to him. It has been difficult, but you learn to live with it,” Dhawan revealed.

He spoke about using spiritual affirmations to feel a closeness to his son, stating, "I feel through affirmations that I'm conversing with him every day, hugging him. I put my energy into it spiritually. It is the only way I can bring back my son. My sadness won't help. I manifest."

Dhawan further elaborated, "I already feel that I'm with him, speaking to him, playing with him. When I sit for my meditation, I visualize those things.

My son is 11 years old now, but I have seen him for only two and-a-half years of his life," a poignant testament to his longing.

Asked which cricketing innings he would showcase to Zoraver if they met, Dhawan emotionally conveyed that cricket was secondary to rekindling their bond.

“I would first hug him. I'll first spend time with him. Listen to what he has to say. Showing him any innings of mine is a thought that hasn't even occurred to me. I'll listen to him, know about him. Maybe if he tears up, I'll cry with him. I'll enjoy my time with him," he disclosed, underscoring his deep sense of yearning for his son.

As Dhawan continues to navigate these personal waters, both his public appearances and heartfelt admissions remind fans of the multi-faceted life led by sports figures, interweaving public admiration with private heartache.