• Friday, March 28, 2025

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Rohan Bopanna, 43, to spearhead India’s tennis challenge at Asian Games 2023

In the women’s contingent, Ankita Raina, the bronze medalist in singles at the 2018 Asian Games, will lead the team.

Rohan Bopanna of India stretches during a match. (Photo by Yong Teck Lim/Getty Images for Sport Singapore)

By: Shubham Ghosh

THE ALL India Tennis Association (AITA) has announced the 12-member squad for the tennis event at the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, with Rohan Bopanna being selected as India’s flag-bearer in the doubles category. The Asian Games are scheduled to begin on September 23.

Sumit Nagal and Sasikumar Mukund are expected to represent India in the singles competition. Bopanna, aged 43, is likely to partner with Ramkumar Ramanathan, while Yuki Bhambri and Saketh Myneni, who already play together on the ATP Tour, complete the men’s squad.

In the women’s contingent, Ankita Raina, the bronze medalist in singles at the 2018 Asian Games, will lead the team. The other members of the squad include Karman Kaur Thandi, Rutuja Bhosale, Sahaja Yamlapalli, Vaidehi Chaudhari, and Prarthana Thombare. In the previous edition of the Asian Games in Jakarta, India won a gold and two bronze medals, with Bopanna and Divij Sharan securing the doubles gold.

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Rohit Rajpal, a former India player, has been appointed as the captain of the men’s squad, while Ankita Bhambri will captain the women’s team. The majority of the core players from the previous Asian Games, such as Ramanathan, Nagal, and Bopanna, have been retained in the squad. Among the women, Ankita, Karman, Rutuja, and Prarthana, who competed in Jakarta, will be joined by Sahaja and Vaidehi as the new additions to the team.

The Indian tennis contingent for the Asian Games comprises skilled players who have showcased their abilities in previous tournaments. With experienced individuals and promising talent, the team aims to build on their previous success and compete at a high level in the upcoming event.

(With agency inputs)

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