Billie Jean King Cup 2025: Young Indian tennis player Shrivalli Bhamidipaty gave a strong start to India by winning the team’s only match in the Billie Jean King Cup 2025. On the first day of the tournament, held at Mhalunge Balewadi Tennis Complex, Shrivalli defeated New Zealand’s Aishi Das in straight sets, 6-1, 6-1.
23-year-old Shrivalli, who is ranked 345 in the WTA singles ranking, showed good confidence and control in her debut match. The tournament is being held with the support of MSLTA, AITA, and PMDTA.
Shrivalli felt emotional during her debut match at the Billie Jean King Cup 2025
After the match, Shrivalli said, “It was emotional for me to play my first match for the country. I felt a little emotional on the court, but I managed myself well. The team and the captain supported me a lot, and the crowd also cheered for us on every point. That helped me win the match.”
She added, “I was focusing on every point and just trying to do my best while thinking about the country.”
Bonding with the team gave her confidence
Shrivalli also spoke about how being with the team helped her. She said, “After the win, when I hugged my teammates, it was a very special moment. All of us are individual players, but here we are playing as a team. In the past few days, we’ve come close, and it has been a good and happy experience.”
She added, “Off the court, we are playing games together, spending time, and trying to understand each other. This energy has helped us on the court too.”
Experienced players guided the team
This year, the Indian team has a good mix of experience and young talent. The team includes experienced players like Prarthana Thombare and Ankita Raina, and young players like Maaya Rajeshwaran.
Shrivalli said, “The senior players have guided us well. They told us how they have played for the country before and what we should do. They also helped us stay calm before matches. Having Maaya in the team also gives us more energy.”
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Billie Jean King Cup 2025: Weather and court conditions are helping Team India
Shrivalli believes the court and weather conditions are working in India’s favor. She said, “The courts are a little fast and bouncy, and we all enjoy playing on such surfaces. Also, the hot weather is helping us.”
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