Asian Games medalist Vishnu Vardhan explains why tennis isn’t a viable career option in India [Exclusive]

Indian tennis veteran and Asian Games silver medalist Vishnu Vardhan has made a bold statement regarding the state of tennis in India, claiming that it is not a viable career option for aspiring players. Speaking exclusively to Sportskeeda, the 37-year-old shed light on the systemic challenges that hinder professional tennis careers in the country.

Vardhan’s insights are backed by decades of experience in the sport. His illustrious career includes competing at the 2012 London Olympics alongside Leander Paes, a silver medal in mixed doubles with Sania Mirza, and a bronze in the men’s team event at the 2010 Asian Games.

At 37, he is still going strong as he managed to clinch the Tennis Premier League 2024 title, playing for Hyderabad Strikers alongside his teammates Harriet Dart and Benjamin Lock.

The Hyderabad-born star has strong reservations about the future of tennis in India. When asked if tennis can be considered a viable career in India, Vardhan was forthright in his response:

"Honestly, my answer would be no because you don't have a proper support system for the players wanting to play professionally.”

Vardhan emphasized how the US college system serves as a lifeline for many Indian players. Through scholarships, young players can continue competing at a high level while earning a degree. This dual approach ensures they do not have to choose between academics and professional tennis, something India currently struggles to offer.

“But apart from that, you have the US college system, which has a lot of Indians. They take scholarships, go abroad to study, and then at the age of 22-23, they still have the chance to turn pro without sacrificing their education. That is the only proper system we have in place,” he added.

While individual states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Haryana, and Odisha have made notable efforts to build infrastructure and programs, these efforts are sporadic and not enough to create a unified system.

“But there are a few associations and federations like Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Haryana. Even Odisha has started doing a lot of good things. Once that comes, you'll have a system in place to help players turn pro," Vishnu pointed out.

Vardhan also highlighted the financial challenges that make tennis a difficult sport to pursue professionally. However, he argued that making tennis affordable and accessible on a larger scale requires organized efforts. Drawing inspiration from the UK's ‘Play and Stay’ program, Vardhan urged Indian tennis federations to adopt similar grassroots initiatives.

"Tennis, in general, is an expensive sport, but you have a lot of equipment available at a low cost. The entry barrier nowadays to play tennis has become easier. The 'Play and Stay' program coined by the UK is beautiful. It's about time our federation takes a leaf out of it and organizes camps and clinics in various schools. Let's start out with government schools and programs. Participation will increase,” the 37-year-old continued.

Acknowledging tennis’s lack of mass appeal in India, Vardhan said:

“You don't have the masses in tennis like in badminton, but we should slowly get there."

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“I'd be happy to get involved and support” - Vishnu Vardhan open to contribute to tennis post-retirement given that a good program is in place

Vishnu Vardhan has been a veteran of Indian tennis. Alongside an Olympic appearance and Asian Games medals, he even featured once in Wimbledon 2018 when he managed to reach the second round in men's doubles on the grass courts.

Vardhan, who is also a lieutenant in the Territorial Army, shared his future plans while emphasizing his ongoing commitment to his playing career.

"Right now, I am focused on my tennis career. I am employed with ONGC as an active sportsperson to play on the tour. That will be my first priority. Even in the territorial army, I am passionate about the services. I'll continue playing inter-services for the Madras Engineering Regiment, my parent army unit,” he added.

Despite his current focus on playing, Vardhan expressed a strong desire to contribute to Indian tennis after his retirement, provided there is a robust program in place.

"When the time comes to put my racquet down, I definitely want to contribute, provided there's a good program in place, whether it's with ONGC, my state association, or the national federation. I'd be happy to get involved and support," Vishnu Vardhan concluded.