Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Sep 2: Indian tennis star Yuki Bhambri has advanced to the pre-quarterfinals of the US Open 2025 men’s doubles alongside New Zealand’s Michael Venus, and he’s soaking in every moment of the journey. The 14th-seeded pair defeated Colombia’s Gonzalo Escobar and Mexico’s Miguel Ángel Reyes-Varela 6-1, 7-5 in a brisk one hour and twenty-five minutes at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre in New York.
Bhambri, currently India’s top-ranked doubles player at world No. 32, expressed pride in carrying the legacy of Indian tennis at a Grand Slam. “It’s an honour to represent India, especially on a stage like the US Open. I’ve shared this platform with great Indian players like Vijay Amritraj, Ramesh Krishnan, Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, and Rohan Bopanna. Every time I step on the court, the pressure to perform is there, but it’s the kind that motivates you,” he said.
Their match began with dominance—Bhambri and Venus broke twice to quickly secure a 3-0 lead, taking the first set 6-1. The second set was more competitive, but the Indo-Kiwi duo held firm to win 7-5 and book a spot in the round of 16, where they will face the fourth-seeded German pair of Tim Puetz and Kevin Krawietz.
Reflecting on the experience of playing at the sport’s highest level, Bhambri acknowledged the privilege of being on court at a Grand Slam. “You don’t always realize the enormity of the moment, but it’s a dream come true. I’ve played singles here, and now I’m competing in doubles with a close friend. That makes it even more special,” he said.
The 32-year-old also shared his dream of winning a Grand Slam, citing tennis greats like Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi as early inspirations. “Watching them win the US Open and Wimbledon made me want to pick up a racket. Lifting a Grand Slam trophy—that’s the dream every player is chasing.”
For aspiring Indian tennis players, Bhambri’s message is clear: be patient and enjoy the journey. “It’s a long road. You won’t get everything right immediately. Focus on building a long-term career. Work hard, have fun, and stay passionate.”
Off the court, Bhambri is just as passionate about cricket, calling it his “first love.” A devoted fan of the Indian team and the Mumbai franchise in the IPL, he admitted he’d probably be swinging a bat if he hadn’t pursued tennis. “Every Indian grows up playing cricket. I follow every match. It’s in our DNA.”
For now, Bhambri’s focus remains on the next big challenge in New York as he and Venus continue their quest for a dream run at the US Open.