Pune: For the first time in 25 years, Maharashtra is set to host the Billie Jean King Cup Asia-Oceania Group 1 Women’s Tennis Tournament, a prestigious event in international women’s tennis. The tournament will take place from April 8 to April 12, 2025, at the Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, Balewadi, Pune.
Organized by the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA), in collaboration with the All India Tennis Association (AITA) and PMDTA, this event follows the successful hosting of the L&T Mumbai Open Women’s WTA Tournament and the PMRDA Maha Open ATP Challenger Tournament.
First Billie Jean King Cup in Pune
While Pune has previously hosted several international tournaments, this is the first time the Billie Jean King Cup (formerly known as the Fed Cup) will be held in the city, said MSLTA Secretary Sunder Iyer.
Six teams from the Asia-Oceania Group, including host nation India, New Zealand, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong China, Korea, and Thailand, will compete in a round-robin format. Each tie will consist of two singles matches and one doubles match.
India's Squad Led by Ankita Raina
The Indian squad, captained by Ankita Raina, features players ranked between 300 and 358 in the world, including Sahaja Yamalapalli, Shrivalli Rashmikaa Bhamidipaty, and Vaidehi Chaudhari. The team is further strengthened by doubles specialist Prarthana Thombare (World No. 137 in doubles), who brings valuable experience and strategic depth.
With the absence of strong contenders like Japan, China, and Kazakhstan, the Indian team is expected to face stiff competition from New Zealand, Thailand, Korea, Chinese Taipei, and Hong Kong.