By Diptayan Hazra
Mumbai (Maharashtra), India, April 17 (ANI): This development represents a significant turning point for Indian tennis as the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association ( MSLTA It has successfully organized three significant international events, including the Challengers Tour (Men's). WTA 125 (Women’s), and the esteemed Billie Jean King Cup (Under the leadership of the Secretary for Women’s issues/affairs). Under the stewardship of Secretary Sunder Iyer These accomplishments are not just boosting Maharashtra’s reputation as a center for tennis but also setting the stage for a more promising future for Indian athletes.
When addressing ANI regarding the importance of these championships, Sunder Iyer said, "Yeah, obviously, MSLTA Has represented Indian tennis for an extended period and has hosted numerous events in the past 10-15 years. However, in the last seven or eight years, efforts have intensified to elevate the quality of these tournaments, ensuring greater benefits for our players as well.”
These competitions offer a vital stage for local Maharashtra talents as well as Indian participants, allowing them to go up against premier competitors right at home instead of needing to venture overseas.
Clearly, players from Maharashtra will have greater chances to participate in larger tournaments. In major events, typically four to six athletes from Maharashtra receive such opportunities. Beyond this, it offers Indian players, whether male or female, the chance to compete in significant competitions held within their own country. ITF (as mentioned for ITF juniors)," he pointed out.
He highlighted the tangible outcomes of this strategy: "Aryan Shah had the chance to participate in six, seven, or even eight events. Then we have Shrivalli (Rashmikaa Bhamidipaty) along with Vaishnavi Adkar and Pooja Ingale—these young women secured gold medals at the National Games. The reason being—they receive ample opportunities and platforms to excel."
Anyway, Maharashtra has been hosting numerous tournaments. We're delighted to back tennis, both within Maharashtra and across India...Additionally, we've managed to, you know, pave the way. ITF , with ATP [Tennis Players' Association], with WTA (Women's Tennis Association) to help with financial backing, which has enabled us to organize all these tournaments. We would also like to thank the Sports Authority of India for their support in hosting these events,” he added.
Taking part in these worldwide competitions greatly influences a player's global standing, frequently providing the essential boost they require.
"Indeed, the rankings increase. They receive a wildcard… If they secure a wildcard and manage to win a round, they can earn around 8 or 9 points for, let’s say, a USD 35,000 event," Iyer clarified.
"They previously held Asian Juniors events in Pune. Those who emerged as winners of the Asian Junior competition later became part of the top 50 globally that year," he mentioned.
To achieve the stringent requirements needed ATP , WTA , and ITF ; MSLTA Has invested significantly in infrastructure, particularly in Pune, transforming it into the hub for international tennis in Maharashtra.
"Pune boasts a facility along with all necessary infrastructure, initiated back in 2008 for the Commonwealth Youth Games. It was designed so that this center could host international events," he stated.
While Mumbai presents challenges due to limited infrastructure, Iyer pointed out that clubs in the city are still world-class.
He further added, "We do international tournaments in eight cities in Maharashtra -- Nashik, Nagpur, Solapur, Aurangabad, Navi Mumbai, apart from Pune and Mumbai. We've invested through our clubs in joint ventures with the Maharashtra government or local municipal corporations."
India's hospitality is playing a key role in transforming the global perception of tournaments held in the country.
"We have to leave a mark for international players when they come to India. India was not talked very high about because people used to fall sick... but all this has changed," he noted.
Iyer attributed this change to cooperative endeavors nationwide.
"The level of dedication shown by us, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and the Delhi Tennis Association has clearly altered foreign perceptions of India. Visitors now feel welcomed and at ease here," he further stated.
Although the present advancements are encouraging, Iyer stays realistic regarding the steps required for India to become a formidable player in global tennis.
"There is much we must achieve in the realm of tennis. We are excellently positioned to become a global frontrunner in this sport. The statistics support our potential. Our economic situation is robust, and our athletes have been performing quite admirably over the past decade," he stated.
He highlighted the emergence of depth in both men's and women's circuits, "We always had one good player but now we have at least two or three chasing each other -- that's a very good sign. We have our older lot of players who are doing well worldwide. We have seven to eight players in the top 100 in doubles and our young girls are doing very well. I think in two years, they'll be world beaters."
For this momentum to sustain, support systems must be strengthened, "We need to create a pathway for them. Take care of their travel. Appoint mentors -- the older players -- to work with and travel with these girls. With this kind of guidance, our players will do very well. It will take some time, but these are things we need to do now, immediately." (ANI)