Chennai serves again: Players relive memories beyond the centre court

Chennai’s tennis courts came alive once again with the familiar rhythm of rackets and roars as the WTA 250 Chennai Open 2025 made a smashing return after a three year break. The SDAT Nungambakkam Stadium buzzed with energy as 32 determined contenders battled it out in singles and 16 spirited duos clashed in doubles, bringing back the city’s long-missed tennis fever.

Between the blistering rallies and Chennai’s unforgiving humidity, players spoke about what the tournament and the city meant to them. From spicy food cravings and hometown nerves to dreams, idols and future goals, here’s what they had to say.SHRIVALLI RASHMIKAA (INDIA)

Playing in front of the Chennai crowd was truly special. The energy was unbelievable. Every cheer gave me the belief to turn things around. Unlike playing 250s abroad, the support here was unmatched.

When the association backs you and the stands are full of people cheering you on, the sport grows, especially when kids are watching, feeling inspired and dreaming of playing one day.DONNA VEKIC (CROATIA)

I was already thinking ahead to next season. I really want to sharpen my game and be stronger on court. Playing in Chennai was a huge confidence boost, and I’m hoping the energy from this tournament helps me start the new season on a high after a challenging year.

SAHAJA YAMALAPALLI (INDIA)

I was really happy with how I played. Of course, I was nervous since it was my first time in a major 250 tournament, but playing in my home country made all the difference. If it had been somewhere else, the nerves would have hit differently. Here, I felt settled, supported and ready to play my game.LINDA FRUHVIRTOVA (CZECHIA)

It felt amazing to be back on this court. I’ve made some of my best memories here in Chennai. And honestly, one of my favourite parts about being here is the food.

I love garlic butter naan and pork masala, and I have them for lunch and dinner every time I’m in India. The warmth and support from Chennai’s people always leave me smiling.JANICE TJEN (INDONESIA)

Tennis isn’t a cheap sport. It’s a very expensive one. I’ve had to travel often and hire a coach, and those costs add up fast. It hasn’t been easy for me or my family, but my college supported me and helped me reach a point where I could consider turning professional.

As for players I look up to, Roger Federer tops the men’s list, and Iga Świątek is my inspiration on the women’s side. She’s World No. 1 and still manages to stay grounded, and that’s something I hope to learn from.

For now, I’m not obsessing over rankings. I just want to give my best in every tournament I play.JOANNA GARLAND (TAIWAN)

The weather was The weather was definitely the toughest definitely the toughest opponent. It was my opponent. It was my first time playing on first time playing on the centre court, and the centre court, and it felt warmer than it felt warmer than the others. Playing at the others. Playing at three in the afternoon three in the afternoon in Chennai is a in Chennai is a match of its own. match of its own. But with each But with each round, I adjusted round, I adjusted and ended up and ended up playing some playing some of my best, of my best, most focused most focused tennis this tennis this week.