MUMBAI: Sachin Tendulkar said he could not hold back his tears after India thrashed Sri Lanka in the World Cup final on Saturday to win the “ultimate” prize after a gap of 28 years.
“I couldn't have asked for more,” said Tendulkar, as his teammates carried him on their shoulders for a victory lap before adoring fans at the Wankhede Satdium.
“Winning the World Cup is the ultimate thing. It is the proudest moment of my life. It shows it is never too late,” he said referring to India's wait for 28 years for the coveted crown.
“I thank my teammates who were fabulous. I could not really hold back my tears. These are happy tears so I don't mind crying.”
Tendulkar made just 18 with the bat as he missed out on scoring his 100th international century.
Young star Virat Kohli said the victory was a fitting tribute to Tendulkar.
“This goes out to all the people of India. Tendulkar has carried the burden of the nation for 21 years. It was time we carried him.”
Gautam Gambhir said the win was a gift to his great teammate from the entire squad.
“All credit for this win should go to Tendulkar. We were all playing for him, this trophy is for him.”
Tendulkar, on his part, thanked each of his team-mates and the support staff including polar explorer Mike Horn.
“I would like to thank the support staff especially Mike Horn who joined us at the start of the tournament and was there for our last couple of games.
“He worked on the mental side and has helped us deal with the expectations and pressure.
“The team stuck together in the rough phases and proved people wrong who doubted our ability. Self-belief has been always there but in the last two years, we have been very consistent.
“It's been great honour to be part of this team. Thanks to (coach) Gary (Kirsten) and Paddy Upton (mental conditioning expert).”
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