Earlier this week, former India captain Rahul Dravid was offered a honorary doctorate by Bangalore University for his contributions to sports.
Dravid, though, has since turned down the doctorate as he wants to earn it by doing some academic research in the field of sports rather than receiving an honorary degree.
The 44-year-old was the only person who was set to receive a honorary doctorate at the university’s 52nd convocation ceremony on Friday.
After Dravid turned down the degree, there will be no recipient of the honour this year.
Bangalore University released a press release confirming the news on Wednesday.
Rahul Dravid declines Bangalore University Hon. degree, says would like to earn doctrate by accomplishing some academic research in sport pic.twitter.com/pP3xqo7EYz
— ANI (@ANI_news) January 25, 2017
Dravid’s decision to decline the doctorate received a lot of praise on Twitter, with people hailing him for having the intention of earning one through hard work instead.
Rahul Dravid is a real gem. He has once again proved it. Declining Bangalore University honorary doctorate says he wants to earn a real PhD!
— DP SATISH (@dp_satish) January 25, 2017
Just when you think you have enough reasons to love the man, he gives you another one. Respect, Rahul Dravid. Legend.
— Vishal Agnihotri (@Dilliwasi) January 25, 2017
#RahulDravid rejects #doctorate , says he wants to earn it by doing a research in the field of sports.
— The Protagonist (@fidonomics) January 25, 2017
This man never fails to impress us !
Good thing that Rahul Dravid rejected this honorary doctorate. Otherwise his name would have become Dr. Avid.
— Ramesh Srivats (@rameshsrivats) January 25, 2017
Rahul Dravid isn't just a legend in cricket but in real life too. Rejects Bangalore university's doctorate, says, "Would like to earn it."
— Sonam Mahajan (@AsYouNotWish) January 25, 2017
Rahul Dravid is someone who is famous for being a cricketer but you'd like to be a person like him.
— EngiNerd. (@mainbhiengineer) January 25, 2017
Rahul Dravid rejects Bangalore University's honorary doctorate.
— Sorabh Pant (@hankypanty) January 25, 2017
Says he'd like to earn a PhD.
What a man.
Dr. Vijay Mallya must be shocked.