Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jan 19: The Mumbai Open, part of the prestigious WTA 125K Series, is set to return to the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA) courts, promising a week of high-quality international tennis. The qualifying rounds will be held on January 30, 31 and February 1, followed by the main draw from February 2 to 8.
The tournament is expected to feature a strong global field in both singles and doubles, with several established and emerging players from across the world competing for top honours.
The 2026 singles entry list includes notable names such as New Zealand’s Lulu Sun, Latvia’s Darja Semenistaja, Australia’s Kimberly Birrell, Belgium’s Hanne Vandewinkel and Joanna Garland representing Chinese Taipei. Adding further intrigue, last year’s finalist Mananchaya Sawangkaew of Thailand and France’s Leolia Jeajean will also return to the Mumbai courts.
Staying true to its mission of nurturing homegrown talent, the Mumbai Open continues to serve as a vital platform for Indian players to gain exposure at the international level. With a high entry cutoff, Indian contenders will have opportunities to feature in the main draw through wild card entries.
The previous edition underlined the tournament’s importance for Indian tennis. Sixteen-year-old Maaya Rajeswaran emerged as a breakout star after defeating higher-ranked international opponents en route to the semi-finals. The event also played a key role in India’s preparation for the Billie Jean King Cup Asia-Oceania Group I, where players such as Sahaja Yamalapalli, Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, Ankita Raina and Prarthana Thombare benefited from valuable match practice against world-class competition.
Their strong performances later helped India progress further in the Billie Jean King Cup, reinforcing the Mumbai Open’s reputation as a crucial stepping stone for the national team.
Speaking ahead of the fifth edition of the tournament, MSLTA Secretary Sunder Iyer said the event has steadily cemented its place on the Indian tennis calendar. “As we host the fifth edition of the Mumbai Open, we are delighted to welcome a highly competitive WTA 125K Series field. The tournament not only brings world-class tennis to Mumbai but also continues to offer Indian players the opportunity to test themselves against top international talent,” he said.
Now in its fifth year, the Mumbai Open boasts a rich history. Former world No. 1 and 2024 Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka lifted the title as a teenager in 2017, while Thailand’s Luksika Kumkhum claimed the crown in 2018. Latvia’s Darja Semenistaja emerged champion in 2024, followed by Switzerland’s Jil Teichmann, who secured the title in 2025.