Tennis in Amritsar is facing a steady decline as rising costs and insufficient government support push the sport to the margins. Local players and coaches express concern over the lack of proper infrastructure, high equipment expenses, and limited sponsorship opportunities, which are deterring young talent from pursuing the sport.
High Costs and Limited Access
The cost of tennis equipment, court maintenance, and coaching fees has skyrocketed in recent years. A decent tennis racket can cost anywhere from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000, while a can of balls is priced at around Rs 500. For many families in Amritsar, these expenses are prohibitive. Moreover, most public courts are in disrepair, and private clubs charge high membership fees, further restricting access.
Government Support Lacking
Unlike cricket, which enjoys substantial government backing, tennis receives minimal support. The Punjab government has not allocated sufficient funds for tennis development, and existing schemes often fail to reach the grassroots level. Coaches and players allege that corruption and bureaucratic hurdles hinder the distribution of resources.
Impact on Young Players
The lack of support is taking a toll on aspiring tennis players. Many talented youngsters are forced to abandon the sport due to financial constraints. Those who persist often struggle to find quality training facilities and competitive exposure. As a result, Amritsar has produced few notable tennis players in recent years.
Local coach Harpreet Singh said, "We have talented kids, but they can't afford the sport. The government needs to step in and provide free coaching and equipment at public courts."
Need for Infrastructure Development
The city has only a handful of well-maintained tennis courts, most of which are located in private clubs. Public courts in areas like Ranjit Avenue and Lawrence Road are often occupied or in poor condition. The Amritsar Tennis Association has been demanding the construction of a tennis complex with multiple courts, but progress has been slow.
Way Forward
To revive tennis in Amritsar, stakeholders recommend increased government funding, public-private partnerships, and community-driven initiatives. Subsidized equipment, free coaching camps, and school-level programs could help identify and nurture talent. Without such measures, tennis risks becoming an elitist sport, accessible only to the wealthy.
The situation mirrors a broader trend in India, where tennis struggles to compete with more popular sports like cricket and badminton. However, with concerted efforts, Amritsar can reclaim its place on the tennis map.
