Can Teen Prodigy Hitesh Chauhan Revive Tennis in India?

New Delhi, June 17 (NationPress) At just 17 years old, Hitesh Chauhan has made history by becoming the first Indian to reach the second round of the French Open Juniors since 2016. However, his ambitions stretch far beyond merely clinching a Grand Slam title—he aims to rekindle the passion for tennis within India.

In an exclusive interview with IANS, Hitesh shared his aspiration to represent India in Grand Slam tournaments and break into the top 30 of the ATP rankings. For him, it’s not merely about personal success; it’s about motivating an entire generation and stirring national interest in the sport.

"This journey is going to be long and challenging. I’m not even halfway there yet, but I want to make my country, my parents, my coaches, and Roundglass proud. I want every Indian to witness tennis in its full glory. I envision an Indian player competing in Grand Slams and ranking within the top 50 and top 30 of the ATP rankings.

“My mission is to revitalize tennis in India—not to the level of cricket, of course—but to grant it the recognition it deserves. I’m prepared for the competition and the hard work. I am confident that I will break into the top 30—that’s my goal,” Hitesh expressed to IANS.

In his first match of the French Open Junior men's doubles, Hitesh, alongside his partner Haydar Cem Gokpinar from Turkiye, triumphed over Sweden’s Ludvig Fredrik Hede and Switzerland’s Flynn Thomas with a score of 7-5, 6-3. This marked Hitesh’s first victory at a Grand Slam tournament.

"The experience was incredible. Competing alongside champions and ATP players like No. 1 Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz, and playing on those historic courts at the French Open with an amazing crowd—this is something I will cherish forever," Hitesh reflected.

In a poetic twist, Hitesh’s initial Grand Slam victory occurred during the event honoring his idol, Rafael Nadal, for his illustrious career.

Hitesh revealed how the thought of Nadal pushed him to deliver his best performance.

"Rafa inspires me. I always dreamed of emulating him. Facing these challenges motivates me a lot, especially thinking about how he played in front of massive crowds. He also competed in the French Open at age 17," he said.

Hitesh’s journey at the tournament ended with a defeat of 6-1, 6-4 against American duo Noah Johnston and Benjamin Willwerth. Nonetheless, he exhibited remarkable resilience, fighting for every point even as he experienced cramping in the second set. He shared a heartwarming conversation with his coach, Aditya Sachdeva, at Roundglass Academy.

"When I called him after my loss, he said, 'To me, you have won. The match you played was remarkable. I am incredibly proud of you. The entire team and academy stand proud. I wouldn’t consider this a loss; it's a win because you fought until the end, even while injured,'" Hitesh recounted.

Following a memorable experience at the French Open, Hitesh is now focusing on the ultimate challenge in tennis—Wimbledon. Currently, he is acclimating to the grass courts at the Chandigarh Club, as it will be his first experience on this surface.

"Preparation for Wimbledon is progressing well. I’m in Chandigarh gearing up for it. Having grass courts available at the Chandigarh Club has allowed me to practice before heading to Wimbledon. I’m also working on my fitness on grass, honing my movement skills.

“I am beginning to feel at ease, and my primary goal is to move effectively on grass, especially since it will be my first match on it. While the game is mentally driven, physical preparation is essential. That’s my focus in the upcoming two to three weeks leading to Wimbledon," he stated.

Before stepping onto the legendary Wimbledon courts, Hitesh will compete in the British Open in Roehampton, a tournament he considers a 'do-or-die' situation.

"This tournament is critical for me because reaching the semifinals in either singles or doubles grants a special exemption into the main draw of Wimbledon. Singles is my priority, as doubles carry less weight. Therefore, I must give everything in this tournament. I must reach the semifinals—it's do or die," Hitesh concluded.