Google ‘ugly sweater’ contest: CEO Sundar Pichai surprises the internet with festive ‘cricket’ sweater

In a lively display of holiday spirit, Google recently hosted its first-ever company-wide “ugly sweater” contest, with CEO Sundar Pichai joining in on the joy. On Christmas Day, Pichai shared photos from the event on Instagram, showing off his uniquely themed jacket that resonates with his Indian heritage.

The competition, which was held the previous week, prompted Googlers to showcase their creativity with vibrant knitwear decorated with a range of festive designs. The judging panel consisted of Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, who judged imaginative submissions, featuring everything from intricate patchwork to traditional Christmas decorations.

Pichai’s choice was marked by his personal touch; He wore a black jacket decorated with cricket bats, a cricket ball and Christmas trees, celebrating India’s deep passion for cricket.

“We closed out 2024 with our first Google-wide Ugly Holiday Contest last week,” Pichai wrote in his Instagram post. Gemini was the judge, and I must say he has good taste 🙂 Congratulations to the winners, and thanks to everyone for a fun end of the year.”

Social media users were quick to praise Pichai’s jacket, with comments highlighting their appreciation for the cricket-themed design. This event not only encouraged playful competition, but also fostered camaraderie among employees during the holiday season.

Born in Chennai, Sunder Pichai has often expressed his love for cricket, and once admitted that he dreams of a professional career in the sport. The ugly sweater tradition, whose roots go back to the 1950s, has gone from a quirky concept to a cherished holiday custom in recent years.

Google’s innovative take on this holiday tradition brought a festive atmosphere to the workplace, with Pichai mixing cricket, Christmas and personal flair to celebrate the end of the year.