In a significant development blending sports legacy with legal strategy, Indian cricket icon Mahendra Singh Dhoni has officially filed to trademark the phrase “Captain Cool”, a nickname that has followed him throughout his illustrious career. According to the Indian Trademark Registry, Dhoni filed the application on June 5, 2025, seeking exclusive rights to use the moniker for a variety of services including sports coaching, training academies, and educational ventures.
This legal move not only cements Dhoni’s brand identity but also signals his future direction in the world of sports entrepreneurship. The trademark application falls under Class 41, which covers education, training, and entertainment — a clear sign that “Captain Cool” might soon become a household brand for cricket and sports training centres across India and potentially abroad.
A Name That Became a Legend
The term “Captain Cool” has long been synonymous with Dhoni’s unshakeable calmness under pressure — especially during high-stakes cricket matches. Whether it was leading India to the 2007 T20 World Cup, the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, or the 2013 Champions Trophy, Dhoni’s composed demeanor and tactical brilliance earned him both respect and admiration globally.
By trademarking the name, Dhoni now holds the commercial rights to “Captain Cool”, ensuring that no other individual or company can use the label for related services without his consent.
What the Trademark Covers
As per the official records from the Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks, the trademark application covers:
- Sports coaching
- Physical education services
- Training academies
- Fitness centres
- Educational and instructional services related to sports
This suggests that Dhoni is preparing to expand or formalize ventures in the sports training sector — something he has already been involved in through his ownership of SEVEN by MS Dhoni (a fitness and lifestyle brand) and his backing of Chennai-based sports academies.
Business Meets Legacy
Trademarking “Captain Cool” is more than just a branding play — it’s a strategic step toward building a post-retirement legacy. While Dhoni retired from international cricket in 2020, he continues to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), where he remains a fan-favorite.
Sports and branding expert Sunil Kher commented, “Trademarking his most recognized nickname allows Dhoni to future-proof his identity. It can power merchandise, training centres, digital content, and more under a legally protected brand.”
The Bigger Picture
This move mirrors trends seen globally, where athletes such as Michael Jordan, Cristiano Ronaldo (CR7), and Roger Federer (RF) have turned personal branding into multimillion-dollar empires.
With Dhoni’s massive fanbase and clean reputation, “Captain Cool” has all the ingredients to become a trusted name in sports education and coaching. Fans are already speculating on social media about upcoming cricket academies or mentorship programs under the new brand.
Source
Trademark filing information is publicly available on the official portal of the Indian Intellectual Property Office (ipindia.gov.in), Application Number: 6203455 under Class 41, filed on June 5, 2025.
Conclusion
MS Dhoni’s move to trademark “Captain Cool” marks the start of a new innings — one that could shape the future of sports training and education in India. With this legal step, the cricket legend isn’t just resting on his laurels — he’s building an empire that could inspire generations to come.
