Solapur is set to host the prestigious Women’s World Ranking Lawn Tennis Tournament for the eighth time, with 56 athletes from 12 countries participating. Sponsored by Precision, Oasis, Elysium-Jamshree, and Balaji Amines, the event, organized in collaboration with Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association and Solapur District Lawn Tennis Association, is scheduled to commence on December 17 at the MSLTA Tennis Center in District Sports Complex, Kumtha Naka.
Rajeev Desai, the Secretary of Solapur District Lawn Tennis Association, shared details about the tournament, highlighting that it will run until December 24. Precision Camshafts Ltd. sponsors this year’s edition, contributing to a prize pool of $25,000. Participants will also earn valuable world ranking points. The tournament aims to foster tennis in Solapur and neighboring districts, enhancing the city’s global recognition.
The match supervisor, Saman Hassani from Iran, appointed by the International Tennis Federation, will work alongside Rajeev Desai, the match director and joint secretary of the state association.
The inauguration on December 18, scheduled for 5 p.m., will be officiated by Collector Kumar Ashirwad and Zilla Parishad CEO Manisha Avale. Prizes will be awarded to outstanding ball pickers and the best media coverage representative.
Direct entry to the main round is granted to local players Nainika Reddy, Pragati Solankar, Akriti Sonkusure, and Jyotsna Madane, showcasing the city’s tennis talent.
While Solapur takes pride in hosting international tennis events, some argue that more focus should be placed on grassroots development, ensuring tennis facilities are accessible to a broader population.
