The SM Krishna stadium in Bengaluru transformed into a vibrant hub of international tennis this week, offering Indian players a rare and cherished opportunity to compete alongside and learn from the world's best. The World Tennis League featured a strong contingent of eight Indian athletes, including Sumit Nagal and Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, who shared the court with mavericks like Nick Kyrgios, Gael Monfils, and Paula Badosa.
Magical Moments and Unlikely Bonds on Court
The Garden City was treated to spectacular tennis, featuring daring winners and delicate drop shots. One of the most heartwarming moments came on the second day when an ecstatic World No. 68 Gael Monfils lifted Sumit Nagal (ranked 277) in his arms after the Indian won a crucial rally against Dhakshineswar Suresh. This spontaneous act highlighted the instant connection forged between players who rarely meet on the regular tour circuit.
Over four exciting days, similar scenes unfolded, allowing Indian competitors to build rapport with higher-ranked ATP and WTA professionals. The event served as a significant learning curve. Youngster Shrivalli Bhamidipaty created a stir on Saturday by breaking world number 26 Marta Kostyuk to lead 4-3, sending her teammates and fans into a frenzy. Although Kostyuk recovered to win the set 6-4, the moment showcased the competitive spirit of the Indians.
A Confidence-Boosting Experience for Indian Contingent
The league format provided a relaxed yet motivated environment perfect for pre-season preparation. Players had direct access to pick the brains of elite stars like World No. 13 Daniil Medvedev, Denis Shapovalov, and Elina Svitolina. For Dhakshineswar Suresh, securing a win over Medvedev in an exhibition match, though unofficial, is a massive confidence booster as he looks ahead.
Nick Kyrgios took on a mentoring role, constantly motivating his doubles partner Suresh throughout the event. Sumit Nagal, who had a challenging 2025 falling out of the top 100, expressed his delight at the unique opportunity. "Leagues are fun. It gets you into a very relaxed and a motivated mood (before the) start of the season. I couldn't have asked for something better than this with incredible top players showing up," Nagal said. He looked fit and ready for the upcoming season, starting with the Bengaluru Open on January 5.
Unforgettable Memories and a Promising Outlook
The league was packed with memorable highlights that extended beyond pure competition. From Paula Badosa's impromptu dance to Kyrgios' signature 'tweeners' and underarm serves, the event was as entertaining as it was competitive. For young Indian talents like 16-year-old Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi and all the other home players, the chance to compete with and partner high-profile international stars was invaluable.
This edition of the World Tennis League in Bengaluru successfully bridged the gap between India's tennis talents and the global elite. The experience of sharing the court, forming bonds, and testing skills against top-tier opposition is expected to provide a significant boost to the confidence and development of Indian tennis as a new season dawns.
