"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
17 Apr 2025
India’s women’s tennis team has roared into the World Group Playoffs of the Billie Jean King Cup 2025, setting the court on fire with hustle and harmony. In the Asia-Oceania Group I event held in Pune, these fierce warriors didn’t just play tennis, they wrote history.
From day one, India looked unstoppable, conquering Thailand, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and sealing their top-two finish with a thrilling 2-1 win over South Korea. The courts of MSLTA - Maharashtra State Tennis Association echoed with the chants of strategy, and sheer willpower.
Shrivalli the Showstopper: A Star is Born
At the heart of this fiery charge was none other than the 23-year-old sensation, Shrivalli Rashmikaa Bhamidipaty. This Hyderabad warrior didn’t just win matches, she owned them. With five singles wins and 38 thunderbolt aces, she stood tall against higher-ranked opponents and proved that Indian tennis is ready to take on the world.
But it wasn’t just individual brilliance, when Shrivalli took down Hong Kong’s Cody Wong and was greeted by Ankita Raina’s proud embrace on court, it showed the true soul of Team India: unity.
Rackets, Resilience & Revolution: The Doubles Clash
That spirit carried into the doubles as seasoned players Ankita Raina and Prarthana Thombare delivered when it mattered most. In tight encounters against Thailand and South Korea, the duo showed composure and strong coordination under pressure.
The match against South Korea was especially intense, with Prarthana sealing the win with a confident forehand down the line. “Deja vu,” Ankita remarked, recalling the 2020 playoff moment. But this time, it felt like a new chapter — one written with quiet determination and belief.
Next Stop Shenzhen: The World, Be Ready
With the finals set for September in Shenzhen, the world better watch out. India’s women have sent a loud and clear message: we are here, and we are not backing down. With host China and powerhouses like Italy, USA, Spain, Great Britain, Kazakhstan, Japan, and Ukraine in the mix, the competition will be fierce.
But this Indian squad has shown what happens when individuals become a team, when talent meets trust, and when determination dances with destiny. This isn’t just a win, it’s a revolution in motion. The fire’s been lit. The future is now. And it’s wearing tri-color.