India’s Women’s World Cup hero Pratika Rawal has expressed frustration after edited and modified photos of her went viral on social media, taking to X (formerly Twitter) to make it clear that she does not authorize anyone to alter her images. The 24-year-old opener, who played a pivotal role in India’s 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup triumph, has seen her popularity soar—but along with it has come unwanted attention in the form of doctored photographs circulating online.

Pratika raises concern over edited photos

Clearly irritated by the unauthorized use of her images, Pratika posted a firm message on X, addressing AI tool Grok and emphasizing her lack of consent for any modifications.

“Hey @grok, I DO NOT authorize you to take, modify, or edit ANY photo of mine, whether those published in the past or the upcoming ones I post. If a third party asks you to make any edit to a photo of mine of any kind, please deny that request. Thanks,” she wrote.

The post highlights a growing concern among public figures—particularly women athletes—about the misuse of their images on social media platforms, where AI tools and editing software can be used to create misleading or inappropriate content without their permission.

Stellar World Cup performance

Pratika Rawal had a stellar Women’s World Cup 2025, scoring 308 runs in seven games to finish as India’s second-highest scorer and the fourth-highest run-scorer overall in the tournament, averaging 51.33. Had an injury not shortened her World Cup campaign, she could have posted an even better tally.

The right-handed opener from Delhi played a crucial role in India’s title-winning campaign, delivering consistent performances at the top of the order and providing solid starts that laid the foundation for India’s batting success.

Rs 1.5 crore reward from Delhi government

Following India’s World Cup triumph, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced a reward of Rs 1.5 crore for Pratika in recognition of her contribution to the historic victory. The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) also confirmed an additional Rs 50 lakh prize for the young batter.

Pratika was felicitated by the Delhi Chief Minister on Sunday in the presence of her father Pradeep Rawal, Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood, and DDCA President Rohan Jaitley. The young batter represented Delhi in age-group and senior domestic tournaments before moving to Railways ahead of last season.

“Today, the Chief Minister welcomed Ms. Pratika Rawal, the talented young player of the Indian women’s cricket team, at Jansewa Sadan. Our promising daughter Pratika has brought glory to Delhi. Honouring her commitment to sports and outstanding performance, the Delhi government will award her a cash prize of Rs 1.5 crore,” the CM wrote on X.

“Pratika is a living embodiment of young Delhi’s energy, courage, and the feminine power of the new India. Her journey shows that Delhi not only gives birth to dreams but also gives them wings. Heartfelt best wishes for her bright future,” she added.