While Indian tennis has predominantly been dominated by male players like Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi, the country has also produced some exceptional female tennis stars. Here’s a look at the top 10 Indian female tennis players of all time:
1. Sania Mirza
Arguably the most famous Indian female tennis player, Sania Mirza achieved remarkable success in doubles. She won six Grand Slam titles, including three in women’s doubles and three in mixed doubles. Her partnership with Martina Hingis was particularly fruitful, as they dominated the doubles circuit for a period.
2. Nirupama Vaidyanathan
Nirupama Vaidyanathan was a pioneer in Indian women’s tennis. She reached the quarterfinals of the French Open in 1975, becoming the first Indian woman to do so in a Grand Slam singles event. She also represented India in the Fed Cup.
3. Ankita Raina
Ankita Raina is a contemporary player who has made significant strides in Indian women’s tennis. She has reached the third round of the Australian Open and has achieved top-100 rankings in singles. Raina has also been a regular member of the Indian Fed Cup team.
4. Arti Doshi
Arti Doshi was a talented player who represented India in the Fed Cup. She reached the third round of the Australian Open in 1995 and was known for her aggressive style of play.
5. Shikha Uberoi
Shikha Uberoi was a doubles specialist who won several titles on the ITF circuit. She also represented India in the Fed Cup.
6. Bhavana Chawla
Bhavana Chawla was a promising player who reached the second round of the French Open in 1996. She also represented India in the Fed Cup.
7. Zeel Desai
Zeel Desai was a junior player who showed great potential. She reached the quarterfinals of the Australian Open in 2010.
8. Prarthana Thombare
Prarthana Thombare is a current player who has shown promise in singles and doubles. She has reached the second round of the French Open and has won several ITF titles.
9. Karman Kaur Thandi
Karman Kaur Thandi is another rising star in Indian women’s tennis. She has reached the third round of the Australian Open and has won several ITF titles.
10. Rushmi Chakravarthi
Rushmi Chakravarthi was a player who represented India in the Fed Cup. She reached the second round of the French Open in 1995.
These are just a few of the talented Indian female tennis players who have made significant contributions to the sport. While India has yet to produce a Grand Slam singles champion in women’s tennis, the country has certainly produced some exceptional players who have inspired future generations.
