Indian women's tennis coach, Ankita Bhambri, is brimming with confidence as she anticipates a strong performance from India's four-member women's tennis team at the upcoming 2023 Asian Games in Hongzhou. Bhambri, who has been guiding the women's team since the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games, believes that the talented players are well-prepared to exceed their previous achievements.
In the 2018 Asian Games, Ankita Raina secured a bronze medal in the singles category, contributing to India's overall haul of one gold and two bronze medals in tennis. Bhambri is hopeful that this time around, the women's team, comprised of Ankita Raina, Karman Kaur Thandi, Rutuja Bhosale, and Prarthana Thombare, will leave a lasting impact at the Asian Games.
Speaking from the Asian Games camp, Bhambri expressed her optimism, saying, "All four, Ankita, Karman Kaur Thandi, Rutuja Bhosale, and Prarthana Thombare, will leave their mark on the Games; they have been in good form and are ready to make it count. They have been playing international tennis with consistency, I am sure it will help them achieve better success at the Asian Games this time."
Bhambri also discussed the future of women's tennis in India, emphasizing the abundance of talent in the country. She believes that the success of top Indian players on the international stage serves as a significant source of inspiration for the younger generation. She urged young aspiring tennis players to have a clear destination in mind and spoke of her father's advice, stating, "My father used to say that nothing is impossible in this world. You must have a destination in your mind. If you know where you want to reach, only then can you find the road to success. I tell this to all youngsters in the country."
Highlighting the influence of tennis icon Sania Mirza, Bhambri praised her for endorsing the belief that success is attainable through dedication and hard work. Sania's career achievements, her fighting spirit, and her determination have made her a role model not just for Indian and Asian players but for tennis players worldwide.
In addition, Bhambri noted the recent successes of Indian tennis players, such as Rohan Bopanna, who was the runner-up in the men's doubles at the US Open, and Sumit Nagal, who was the ATP Tulln Challenger runner-up. She believes that these achievements will boost the confidence of Indian athletes heading into the Asian Games.
Finally, Bhambri emphasized the significance of a supportive team environment, drawing from her own experience as a 15-year-old partnering with Sania Mirza in doubles at the national championship. She recalled their unexpected victory, highlighting how the presence of accomplished players like Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, and Sania Mirza motivates others to strive for excellence on the grand stage.
As the Indian women's tennis team prepares for the Asian Games, Ankita Bhambri's optimism, dedication, and belief in the potential of Indian tennis talent serve as an inspiring testament to the future of women's tennis in the country. The athletes carry the hopes of a nation and the legacy of their predecessors as they aim to achieve success and make their mark on the Asian Games stage.
