Updated: February 22, 2026
Shikhar Dhawan, fondly called “Gabbar” by cricket lovers, has always been more than just an explosive opener on the field. His personal journey, especially when it comes to relationships, has grabbed headlines over the years. After a tough chapter in his first marriage, the 40-year-old has stepped into a fresh, joyful phase. As of 2026, Shikhar Dhawan’s wife is Sophie Shine, an Irish professional he recently married in a beautiful, intimate ceremony. Let’s dive into the details of his love life, the highs and lows, and what makes this new chapter so special.
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Shikhar Dhawan’s First Marriage to Aesha Mukerji
Shikhar’s first marriage was to Aesha Mukerji (also spelled Ayesha Mukherjee), an Australia-based kickboxer and fitness enthusiast. They tied the knot in 2012 after meeting online and connecting deeply despite the age difference and distance. Aesha, originally from India but raised in Australia, brought two daughters from her previous relationship into the marriage—Aliyah and Rhea—whom Shikhar lovingly accepted and adopted.
The couple welcomed their son, Zoravar Dhawan, in 2014. For years, fans admired their cross-cultural bond and family moments shared on social media. However, things took a difficult turn. By 2021, the couple had separated, and the divorce was finalized in October 2023 by a Delhi court on grounds of mental cruelty. The process was emotional and public, with Shikhar opening up about the pain of limited contact with his son, who lives in Australia with Aesha. Despite the challenges, Shikhar has always emphasized moving forward with positivity and focusing on personal growth.
Key highlights from his first marriage:
- Marriage Date — October 30, 2012
- Child Together — Son Zoravar (born 2014)
- Divorce Year — 2023
- Reason Cited — Mental cruelty (court-granted)
Who Is Sophie Shine? Meet Shikhar’s Current Wife
Fast forward to 2025, and Shikhar found love again with Sophie Shine, an Irish product consultant based in the UAE. Sophie works as Second Vice President – Product Consultant at Northern Trust Corporation, a leading financial services firm. She holds qualifications in Marketing and Management from Limerick Institute of Technology and brings a global, professional vibe to the relationship.
The couple reportedly met in the UAE, where Sophie is based. Their romance blossomed quietly at first, but they went public in 2025. Fans first spotted them together during the Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai, and soon after, they appeared at events side by side. Sophie has embraced Indian traditions wholeheartedly—think full-hand mehendi, vibrant haldi looks, and traditional choora with kaleeras during pre-wedding festivities.
What stands out is how grounded and supportive Sophie seems. She’s also involved in Shikhar’s professional world, reportedly heading aspects of the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation and Da One Sports as COO. Their story feels like a beautiful blend of cultures and new beginnings.
The Beautiful Wedding and New Chapter in 2026
On February 21, 2026, Shikhar and Sophie exchanged vows in a private, intimate ceremony in the Delhi-NCR region. It was a close affair with family, friends, and a few cricketing buddies like Yuzvendra Chahal, who shared heartwarming photos and videos on Instagram with captions like “Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai.” Pre-wedding celebrations included a lively sangeet, traditional haldi on February 20, and mehendi where Sophie shone in her embrace of Indian rituals.
Shikhar shared glimpses on social media, captioning one post from sangeet: “Sangeet night. Almost the Dhawans.” Their engagement announcement in January 2026 read: “From shared smiles to shared dreams. Grateful for the love, the blessings, and every good wish for our engagement as we choose togetherness forever – Shikhar & Sophie.”
The wedding has sparked buzz not just for the romance but for Sophie’s ivory bridal look and the cross-cultural elegance that’s inspiring 2026 wedding trends.
Quick facts about the recent wedding:
- Wedding Date — February 21, 2026
- Location — Private ceremony in Delhi-NCR
- Engagement — Announced January 2026
- First Spotted Together — Champions Trophy 2025, Dubai
- Relationship Public — May 2025
Conclusion: A Story of Resilience and Fresh Starts
Shikhar Dhawan’s personal life has seen its share of ups and downs, but his ability to rise with grace is truly inspiring. From the challenges of his past marriage to finding happiness with Sophie Shine, he shows that life offers second chances when you’re open to them. Today, as Mr. and Mrs. Dhawan, they’re building a future filled with love, shared dreams, and positive energy.
Whether on the cricket field or in life, Shikhar has always played with heart. Here’s wishing the couple endless joy, strength, and many more beautiful moments together. Fans are rooting for this new innings—what do you think of Shikhar’s journey? Drop your thoughts below!