Suniel Shetty Opens Up on KL Rahul's Controversial IPL 2024 Moment with LSG Owner
The intense on-field argument between cricketer KL Rahul and Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka during the IPL 2024 season continues to be a major talking point among cricket fans and analysts. Nearly a full year after the incident, Rahul's father-in-law and veteran Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty has finally shared his perspective on the matter, providing a thoughtful and composed take on the widely publicized confrontation.
Family Never Discussed the Controversy, Says Shetty
In a candid interview on Lehren Retro, Suniel Shetty disclosed that the controversial episode was never a subject of conversation within their family circle. Highlighting KL Rahul's remarkable composure and restraint in the face of intense public scrutiny and media speculation, the actor stated, "People feel that way about him and he is aware of that, he has got all the love and sympathy. He never said a word till date. He has never talked about it, we never discussed that at home."
Shetty offered a possible explanation for Goenka's behavior during that heated exchange, suggesting, "Maybe, Sanjeev ji was going through something in his life at that period, and that's how we saw it." This comment reflects the family's attempt to understand the situation with empathy rather than judgment.
Admitting the Emotional Impact on KL Rahul
While emphasizing Rahul's decision to maintain silence publicly, Suniel Shetty acknowledged that the incident did have a significant emotional impact on the cricketer. The argument occurred after LSG suffered a heavy defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad, drawing widespread attention and commentary from fans, experts, and the media alike.
"Of course, it hurt him, because the world is seeing," Shetty revealed. "The world wanted to take decisions, and the world was passing statements. But, those are not our statements. That shows the love for Rahul, for the family, but I don't think we went into that also." This admission underscores the personal toll such public controversies can take on athletes, even when they choose not to engage publicly.
Suniel Shetty's Anxiety During KL Rahul's Matches
During the same interview, Suniel Shetty also expressed immense pride in KL Rahul's accomplishments as a key player for the Indian national cricket team. Interestingly, he confessed that he often avoids watching Rahul's matches live due to overwhelming anxiety and nervousness.
"The biggest high for me is Rahul representing the country itself," Shetty said. "If he is captain, vice captain, or leading from the front, responsible for India's victory, that's a big high for us automatically. I don't know if it's superstition or I get anxious, it's maybe because of that." This heartfelt revelation highlights the deep emotional investment family members have in the careers of their loved ones, transcending the glamour of professional sports.
Background on KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty's Relationship
KL Rahul and Athiya Shetty, daughter of Suniel Shetty, first met through mutual friends around 2019. The couple meticulously kept their relationship away from the public eye and media spotlight before eventually marrying in a private ceremony in 2023. In 2025, they welcomed their daughter, Evaarah, and have since occasionally shared snippets of their quiet family life, maintaining their preference for privacy despite their high-profile status.
The family's approach to handling public controversies and personal milestones reflects a consistent theme of dignity and restraint, as illustrated by Suniel Shetty's recent comments on the IPL 2024 incident.
