The electrifying World Tennis League (WTL) is set to electrify India with its inaugural tournament scheduled for December 17-20 in Bengaluru. After captivating audiences in the UAE for three seasons, this premier tennis event will transform the SM Krishna Tennis Stadium into a battleground for global and national stars.
The tournament boasts an impressive roster of international tennis titans, including the formidable Daniil Medvedev and Nick Kyrgios, alongside the powerful Elena Rybakina. Other notable names gracing the courts will be Paula Badosa, the celebrated Rohan Bopanna, showman Gael Monfils, rising talent Arthur Fils, India’s Sumit Nagal, Magda Linette, and Marta Kostyuk. Adding significant domestic flavor, India’s leading players Yuki Bhambri, Ankita Raina, Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, Maaya Revathi, Dhakshineswar Suresh, and Shivika Burman are also confirmed.
Elena Rybakina, currently ranked World No. 5, shared her excitement about competing in India for the first time. “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,” she stated. The WTL adopts a unique round-robin structure, where four teams compete in a series of men’s singles, women’s singles, and two doubles matches. The two highest-ranking teams will then vie for the championship title in the final showdown.
Reflecting on the WTL’s expansion, co-founder Mahesh Bhupathi emphasized the sport’s connection with India. “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 remarked. He also expressed hope that the blend of international champions and India’s finest will ignite passion and inspire future generations of tennis players.