Is Kriish Tyagi Ready to Shine as the Only Indian in the US Open Junior Tennis Championship?

Bengaluru, Aug 16 (NationPress) - Kriish Tyagi, the sole Indian competitor at the upcoming US Open Junior Tennis Championships 2025, which will take place from August 31 to September 6, is filled with optimism for a remarkable performance. His confidence is bolstered by thorough preparations and a stellar debut at the recent Wimbledon Junior Championship last month.

“Prior to Wimbledon, I was on the road frequently, participating in tournaments, which left little room for training. However, for the US Open, we decided to forgo some events to focus on physical, mental, and skillful training. I feel much more prepared now,” he shared.

“One vital aspect I aim to bring to the US Open is strength, physical dominance, and mental resilience during critical moments. That’s where I see potential for growth,” said the 18-year-old, who departed for the US from Bengaluru earlier this week. He will compete in the ITF J300 before entering the US Open Junior Championships.

Having started playing tennis at the age of 10, Kriish has swiftly climbed the ranks through dedication, improvisation, and discipline. He currently holds the title of India’s No.1 in the junior category. This year, his Wimbledon debut was a significant highlight. “Training with top players and immersing myself in that environment made me feel at home,” he reflected. “I was a bit anxious during my singles match—the atmosphere and crowd were unlike anything I had encountered before. However, I drew from that experience in my doubles match, where I felt much more self-assured.”

Although his singles match didn’t unfold as he had hoped, he teamed up with South Africa’s Connor Doig to defeat the British duo of Davies and Lawlor 3-6, 6-4, (10-6) in the Round of 32, advancing to the Round of 16. The pair also reached the quarterfinals after winning 6-3, 3-6, 10-7.

Defeating a British duo on their home soil remains a cherished memory for Kriish. “The crowd was electrifying, cheering loudly for their team, but I channeled that energy. I found myself celebrating after every point. My partner and I were in sync, executing our game plan perfectly,” he affirmed.

During his time at Wimbledon, Kriish maximized his learning opportunities by observing seasoned players. “I gained invaluable insights into how top athletes manage pressure, close out games, and mount comebacks. That experience is priceless,” he recalled.

For Kriish, embarking on a professional tennis career has been a journey filled with learning, self-discovery, and a greater understanding of the sport. “It’s been a rollercoaster ride,” he noted after a rigorous three-hour practice session at the SM Krishna Tennis Stadium in the city’s heart.

As the only Indian junior at Wimbledon and now at the US Open, does he feel any pressure? “Not at all,” he replied with a shrug. “I actually enjoy pressure.”

Coming from Karnataka, a region rich in tennis tradition, being part of that legacy excites him. “Training on the same grass courts as senior professionals, undergoing recovery therapies, made me feel like I belonged. I understand there’s still a long journey ahead, but it feels like a step in the right direction.”