In a night charged with emotion and history at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally ended their 18-year wait for an Indian Premier League (IPL) title, edging out Punjab Kings (PBKS) by six runs in a thrilling 2025 final. But as RCB’s players erupted in jubilation, the heartbreak in the Punjab Kings’ camp was palpable—none more so than for co-owner and Bollywood star Preity Zintawhose teary-eyed reaction quickly became the defining moment of the night.

Dressed in a traditional white kurta with a red dupatta, Preity was seen walking onto the field after the final whistle, her eyes red with emotion as she consoled her crestfallen players, including captain Shreyas Iyer. The camera lingered on her, capturing a mix of sadness, empathy, and years of hope dashed in a matter of overs. Preity, who has been the face of Punjab Kings’ unwavering spirit since 2008, could not hide her disappointment as her team’s dream of a maiden IPL title slipped away once again.

The match itself was a nail-biter. After Iyer won the toss and chose to bowl, RCB posted a competitive 190, thanks to aggressive early batting. Punjab Kings, chasing 191, faltered at key moments, with the crucial wicket of Shreyas Iyer—who fell for just one run—proving a turning point. RCB’s bowlers, including Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Yash dayalheld their nerve in the dying overs to secure a historic victory.

But as the confetti fell for RCB, social media exploded with messages of support for Zinta. Fans from across the country expressed their sympathy and admiration for her steadfast dedication to the team. One viral post read, “Bhai, Yeh Bhi to 18 Saal Se Wait Hi Kar Rahi Hai” (“She too has been waiting for 18 years”), encapsulating the collective heartbreak of Punjab Kings’ supporters. Another user commented, “She deserves that trophy more,” while many others reminisced about similar scenes from the 2014 final, when Zinta’s hopes were dashed in a previous heartbreak.

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli takes AB de Villiers to RCB dressing room after historic IPL 2025 triumph

Videos and images of Preity’s emotional walk off the field, her face etched with disappointment, flooded timelines. “I don’t even watch IPL, but I STILL want Punjab Kings to win… just to see her smile!” wrote one fan. Another added, “Hope someday Punjab Kings wins the IPL trophy for Preity Zinta,” echoing the sentiment of many who have witnessed her passionate support season after season.

Despite the loss, Preity’s heartfelt presence and unwavering commitment have only deepened the bond between her and Punjab Kings’ faithful fans. For many, her tears were not just about a lost trophy, but a testament to the long, emotional journey that defines sports—and the hope that, one day, her wait will finally end.