The World Tennis League (WTL) is set to launch in India, bringing its exhilarating team format to Bengaluru from December 17-20. This marks the league’s first foray into India after three successful seasons in the UAE, promising a thrilling display of world-class tennis at the renowned SM Krishna Tennis Stadium.
The tournament’s roster reads like a who’s who of the tennis world, featuring top players such as Daniil Medvedev, Nick Kyrgios, and Elena Rybakina. Fans will also witness the talents of Paula Badosa, Indian tennis legend Rohan Bopanna, the flamboyant Gael Monfils, rising star Arthur Fils, India’s leading male player Sumit Nagal, along with Magda Linette and Marta Kostyuk. The event will also prominently feature India’s finest talents, including Yuki Bhambri, Ankita Raina, Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, Maaya Revathi, Dhakshineswar Suresh, and Shivika Burman.
Expressing her excitement for her Indian debut, World No. 5 Elena Rybakina remarked, “I’ve heard so much about the tennis culture in India, and I’m thrilled to make my debut here with WTL. The league has an exciting format, and I’m ready to enjoy every moment on the court with my team.” The WTL’s unique competition structure involves four teams participating in a round-robin tournament. Each match-up will feature a men’s singles, a women’s singles, and two doubles contests, culminating in a final between the top two teams.
Mahesh Bhupathi, a co-founder of the WTL and a decorated Grand Slam champion, emphasized the importance of this Indian expansion. “India has always shared a deep and lasting connection with tennis, and the WTL’s arrival here is an opportunity to strengthen that bond. I believe this format brings out the fast, dynamic, and engaging side of the competition,” he said. He further elaborated that the league intends to inspire young Indian athletes by presenting a high-octane, international tennis experience.