Pune, April 5 (H.S.): The 15-year-old tennis star Maaya Rajeshwaran, who garnered attention with her outstanding performance at the Mumbai Open, is now a part of the Indian team for the Billie Jean King Cup 2025. This prestigious tournament of the Asia-Oceania Group-1 is being organized by the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association in collaboration with the All India Tennis Association (AITA) and the Pune Metropolitan District Tennis Association. The matches will be held between April 8 and 12 at the Mhalunge Balewadi Tennis Complex in Pune.

Before the tournament, Maaya shared her future aspirations in an official statement, saying, My main goal this year is to play in Junior Grand Slams. I am also competing in the senior women's category, and winning a junior Grand Slam in the coming years is my mid-term goal.

Recalling her remarkable journey in the Mumbai Open, Maya said, Receiving a wildcard for the Mumbai Open was very special for me. The funny thing is that it wasn’t even a part of my plans. I am extremely grateful to the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association and Sir Sundar Ayyar for giving me the wildcard.

She added, I was happy after winning my first match, but I wasn’t satisfied because my aim was not just to win one match; it was to qualify.

With the wildcard entry, Maaya showcased an impressive performance against some of the world's top players. Speaking about her performance, she said, This is a transition phase of my career, where I am moving from junior to senior level. The Mumbai Open gave me a significant breakthrough, and I am very happy about it.

Maaya is thrilled about the Billie Jean King Cup in Pune, expressing pride in representing the senior Indian team for the first time. She emphasizes that every player dreams of this opportunity and urges spectators to support the team, highlighting the importance of fan encouragement.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar