"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
11 Feb 2025
At just 15, Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi’s fearless run to the semifinals of the Mumbai Open WTA 125 has made her the brightest new star in Indian tennis. It’s a surreal moment for the teenager, who just a week ago was an unranked player with no plans of competing in the tournament. But when a wildcard opportunity came her way, Maaya grabbed it with both hands and turned it into a dream run, becoming the first Indian since Sania Mirza to reach the semifinals of a home WTA event.
Maaya’s journey at the Mumbai Open was nothing short of spectacular. She battled through five matches in a single week, showcasing her natural talent, fearless attitude, and mental toughness. Her powerful groundstrokes, variety of shots, and ability to reset between points left fans and critics in awe. Even in her semifinal loss to former world No. 21 Jil Teichmann, Maaya held her head high, proving she belongs on the big stage.
This breakthrough performance earned Maaya her first WTA ranking points, catapulting her into the Top 700 in the senior circuit. For a player who started tennis recreationally at eight and decided to go pro at ten, this is a giant leap. "I love to compete, even under pressure," she says, and it shows. Her proactive mindset and all-out mentality have been her driving forces, helping her win junior ITF titles and climb to a Top 60 junior ranking.
Maaya’s talent hasn’t gone unnoticed.
Last year, she received an invitation to train at the prestigious Rafael Nadal Academy in Spain.
She’s already spent time there, training alongside the legend himself, and will soon move to Mallorca full-time with her mother. The academy has been closely following her progress, even celebrating her Mumbai Open run on their social media. This kind of world-class training and support is rare for young Indian players, and it’s set to take Maaya’s game to new heights.
What sets Maaya apart is not just her skill but her mindset. At 15, she displays a level of composure and maturity that belies her age. Her parents, Rajeshwaran and Revathi, along with her first coach, Manoj Kumar, form a strong support system that keeps her grounded.
Maaya’s Mumbai Open run was a true test of her physical and mental endurance. Playing three consecutive three-set matches in as many days took its toll, but she fought valiantly, earning the admiration of fans and fellow players alike. Her ability to sustain such intensity at such a young age is a promising sign for her future.
Looking ahead, Maaya has clear goals: breaking into the Top 10 juniors and competing in junior Grand Slams, starting with the French Open in May. Her love for clay courts and her training in Europe make her a strong contender. But beyond the juniors, Maaya is already thinking about her transition to the senior circuit. "By the time I finish juniors, I should be there in the women’s," she says confidently.
Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi’s rise is a breath of fresh air for Indian tennis. Her Mumbai Open performance wasn’t just a breakthrough; it was a statement. With her talent, determination, and the backing of the Rafael Nadal Academy, Maaya is poised to become India’s next tennis superstar. The future is bright, and Maaya is ready to shine.