India all-rounder Washington Sundar has sparked controversy after a viral video showed him turning away from eager fans seeking selfies and autographs in a hotel hallway. The brief clip, which surfaced on social media platforms like X, captured the Gujarat Titans star appearing uncomfortable as supporters crowded him, leading to accusations of arrogance from some quarters. While the incident has divided opinions, it comes at a time when Sundar remains a key asset for India across formats.
Washington Sundar trolled after turning down autograph and selfie plea from kid fan
The episode unfolded in a confined hotel lobby or hallway, where Sundar was navigating through a group of enthusiastic fans calling out for photos and signatures. Visibly hesitant and looking overwhelmed, the 26-year-old cricketer did not stop to engage, instead opting to abruptly turn back and retrace his path to evade the crowd. The short video quickly spread online, amassing thousands of views and igniting a firestorm of reactions.
Critics were quick to label Sundar’s demeanor as too much attitude, questioning why a public figure like him seemed dismissive toward young admirers desperate for a moment with their idol. Comments flooded social media, with users lamenting that stars should prioritize fan interactions, especially from children, and branding the move as rude or entitled. However, defenders countered that athletes deserve personal space in private settings, arguing the clip was edited to portray him negatively and that constant demands can be exhausting.
Here’s how fans reacted:
Even though failed as a batter & allrounder..
Disgusting 🤮 https://t.co/EWiqRc9751— Dhananjaya Singh (@Dhananjaya1402) January 2, 2026
WTF??? What attitude?!! He’s just awkward. And why aren’t people taking the cue? If he’s not interested in getting clicked, just respect his wishes and stop invading his space… Bashing Washi for BS reasons!!! https://t.co/eXpoOseRry
— 🦢 (@Shakarshee) January 2, 2026
That y someone says money and fame can’t handle by everyone https://t.co/mM6bXDdoFA
— kingVIRATkohli (@SAMIRBISWA53788) January 2, 2026
Similar attitude with @akshar2026 when we tried to talk to him in ITC.. they are probably right. I don’t know. Felt like insult to us. https://t.co/5H1LBnYxMd
— Contractor Ganesh (@ganeshraja88) January 2, 2026
Jab us level tal pahunch jayega tab dekha jayega, abhi toh coach ke favour mein hain https://t.co/6IXZV44nqv
— Scooter Libby (@Libby9595S) January 2, 2026
11 days ago, I saw him travel in the same flight as mine and a old guy asked for a selfie in the transit and he literally told him “ don’t you have sense ?” I mean he didn’t invade his privacy nor didn’t gimmick any stunts. That was really harsh. https://t.co/JUVv3poArG
— Aarav Shain (@AaravShain) January 2, 2026
wtf is this https://t.co/hE9BkI2idL
— Yogi In Australia 🇮🇳🇦🇺🕉️ (@akshaypujari3) January 2, 2026
Who are those idiots trying for a selfie with sundar!! That in itself is an insult to cricket. https://t.co/Yo6XX1XsP0
— moodalapalya share auto (@deshmukhnaveen) January 2, 2026
the ending of this video lmao, no way out https://t.co/Bd9OYeZITc
— Aal (@Aaalway) January 2, 2026
Washington Sundar 🤩 pic.twitter.com/rXotcYtzOd
— Vrushank (@77vrushank) January 2, 2026
Imagine denying selfies when fans struggle to even recognize you without Google.
Bro acting like prime Kohli with net-bowler fame. 📵😭 https://t.co/6W0e2excAX— Unagi (@Unagi_999) January 3, 2026
Washington Sundar’s impressive recent performances
Despite the online drama, Sundar has been in red-hot form, solidifying his reputation as a versatile all-rounder. In Tests, he boasts an average of 42.14 with a highest of 101*, including standout knocks like a century in the 2025 England series in Manchester and a rapid fifty in 39 balls during the final Test. His bowling shines too, with 36 wickets at 32.97 and economical spells like his career-best 7/59 against New Zealand in 2024.
In T20Is, Sundar has 51 wickets at 22.76 across 58 matches, complemented by useful cameos like 49 off 23 balls in an ODI against Australia. For Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2026, expectations are high as coaches eye him for No. 4 batting, leveraging his improved white-ball aggression after a strong 2025 tour of England. Recent series against South Africa and Sri Lanka further highlighted his consistency, silencing doubters with match-winning contributions. As debates rage, Sundar’s on-field prowess underscores his value to Indian cricket.
Also READ: Reason why Shreyas Iyer will miss the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand
