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After an emotional phase marked by his divorce from Aesha Mukherjee in 2023 following an 11-year marriage, former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has found love again. This time, it’s with Ireland-born Sophie Shine, a professional with a strong corporate background.
While Dhawan chose to keep his relationship private initially, it was Sophie who made their bond public through a heartfelt Instagram post earlier this year, sparking warm reactions across social media. Their love story began quietly, with very few public appearances, but gradually gained attention as the couple was spotted together at various events. The relationship marked a new beginning for Dhawan, who had not only navigated a personal setback with grace but also continued to remain a dignified figure in Indian cricket.
Sophie Shine finally reveals how she met Shikhar Dhawan and the one thing that stood out to her
For the first time on a public platform, Sophie opened up about what drew her to Shikhar during their very first encounter. In a promotional video for a skincare brand featuring the couple, Sophie, glowing with affection, revealed that it was Dhawan’s “mischievous eyes” and “beautiful face” that initially caught her attention. She fondly recalled how she felt instantly attracted to him during their first meeting at a restaurant in Dubai.
“Definitely, his beautiful face. He had very mischievous eyes,” Sophie said.
Dhawan, sitting beside her, added his memory of that moment, saying that Sophie was dressed in camouflage trousers and a matching jacket, and that he found her “very beautiful” the moment he saw her.
“We met at a restaurant in Dubai and it was a great feeling. Sophie was wearing a camouflage trousers and jacket. She was looking very beautiful,” Shikhar said.
The easy chemistry and comfort between the two were visible in the video, offering viewers a glimpse into their genuine and loving connection. Their Dubai encounter wasn’t just casual, it planted the seeds for a bond that gradually blossomed into something deep and meaningful.
Also READ: Shikhar Dhawan confirms his relationship with Irish girlfriend Sophie Shine
From quiet meetings to a strong relationship
That initial meeting in Dubai soon turned into regular conversations, shared time, and quiet companionship that matured into a steady relationship. While both remained tight-lipped in the beginning, their appearances together at airports and high-profile cricketing events slowly made it evident that they were more than just acquaintances. One of the most talked-about moments came when Dhawan was in Dubai for the ICC Champions Trophy as the brand ambassador.
Photos of the cricketer with Sophie quickly went viral, setting social media abuzz. Following that, Sophie moved to India and began living with Dhawan, supporting him not just emotionally but also publicly. Sophie is not just known today for being Shikhar’s partner; she brings with her an impressive professional portfolio and educational background. Born and raised in Ireland, she completed her schooling at Castleroy College before earning a degree in Marketing and Management from the prestigious Limerick Institute of Technology. Currently, she holds a high-ranking position as the Second Vice President at Northern Trust Corporation in Abu Dhabi, where she works as a product consultant.
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