The World Tennis League is set to debut in India next month, with the high-profile mixed-gender team competition scheduled to run from December 17–20 in Bengaluru. After three successful seasons in the UAE, the fourth edition of the WTL will take place at the SM Krishna Tennis Stadium, owned and operated by the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association in an attempt to India's connection with the global sport.
This edition of the WTL boasts a strong line-up of international stars. Headlining the competition are former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev, former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, and former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios. They will be joined by top players including Paula Badosa, Gael Monfils, Arthur Fils, and India’s own stars, Rohan Bopanna and Sumit Nagal.
In a boost for domestic tennis, the league has also added India’s standout performers to the roster. This list includes Yuki Bhambri, Ankita Raina, Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, Maaya Rajeshwaran, and Sahaja Yamalapalli.
WTL co-founder and 12-time Grand Slam champion Mahesh Bhupathi emphasized the league's dual purpose: “India has always shared a deep and lasting connection with tennis, and the WTL’s arrival here is an opportunity to strengthen that bond. We hope to inspire the next generation of players.”
World No. 5 Elena Rybakina expressed enthusiasm for her first appearance in the country. "I’ve heard so much about the tennis culture in India, and I’m thrilled to make my debut here with WTL," Rybakina said. The league features a unique format where four teams will compete in a round-robin stage consisting of men’s singles, women’s singles, and two doubles events. The top two teams following the round-robin stage will advance to the final.
The event is managed by Iconik Sports and Events Ltd., and aims to showcase India's capacity to host world-class tournaments while offering domestic athletes exposure alongside international icons. This will be an exhibition event, with entertainment-first atmosphere, aiming to ignite a new passion for tennis across the nation.
