Punjab Newsline,Sports:
Qualifying rounds begin January 30, main draw starts February 2 at MSLTA Mumbai
The Mumbai Open WTA 125K Series is set to return with its fifth edition, bringing top women’s tennis action back to India. The tournament will begin with the qualifying draw on January 30 and 31, while the main draw matches will start from February 2. All matches will be played at the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA), Mumbai.
The Mumbai Open has established itself as one of India’s biggest women’s tennis tournaments, attracting several high-ranked international players every season. This year, the tournament has gained more strength as eight players in the main draw are ranked inside the Top 150 globally, adding to its growing reputation on the international circuit. It also gives Indian tennis fans an opportunity to watch world-class women’s tennis live.
Among the top names participating this season is New Zealand’s Lulu Sun. The 24-year-old has a career-high ranking of 39 and is currently ranked 86. She made headlines at the 2024 Wimbledon Championships by defeating World No. 8 Zheng Qinwen in the first round. That victory marked her first win against a Top 10 player and helped her reach the quarterfinals as a qualifier. During the same tournament, she also defeated former US Open champion Emma Raducanu in the fourth round.
Another major highlight is the return of Latvia’s Darja Semenistaja, the defending champion of the Mumbai Open. She won the title in 2024 after a strong comeback in the final, where she defeated Australia’s Storm Hunter. Darja has a career-high ranking of 87 and is currently ranked 98, continuing to climb through consistent performances.
Apart from them, France’s Leolia Jeanjean (currently ranked 103), Australia’s Kimberly Birrell (ranked 76), Chinese Taipei’s Joanna Garland, Thailand’s Mananchaya Sawangkaew, and experienced Dutch player Arantxa Rus will also be part of the tournament, making the competition stronger and more exciting.
Indian players are also expected to get opportunities through wildcard entries, which will be confirmed before the tournament begins. Overall, the Mumbai Open WTA 125K Series promises thrilling matches and a grand tennis experience for fans in Mumbai.