Bengaluru, Dec 31 (NationPress) Indian tennis sensation Prajwal Dev has been awarded a wild card for the Bengaluru Open 2026, showcasing the tournament's commitment to nurturing Indian talent on an international stage. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this prestigious event is slated to occur in Bengaluru from January 5th to 11th, 2026, featuring a robust international lineup alongside top Indian competitors on the ATP Challenger Tour.

After securing the Men’s Singles championship at the ITF World Tennis Tour M15 in Bhubaneswar last month, this wild card entry offers the 29-year-old a vital chance to compete against a talented array of players in one of India's premier tennis events. Having been elevated to an ATP Challenger 125 level last year, the Bengaluru Open now boasts a prize pool exceeding USD 225,000 and awards 125 ATP ranking points to the singles champion, enhancing its appeal and competitive significance.

“Competing at the Bengaluru Open ATP Challenger in my home state is a moment of pride for me. This tournament has consistently provided us with a world-class platform to challenge ourselves against formidable international opponents, and the fact that this is the 10th edition makes it all the more special. I am deeply thankful for the wild card and the support from KSLTA, and I’m eager to compete at the Bengaluru Open and give it my all. Thank you,” Prajwal remarked upon receiving the wild card.

Prajwal, a right-handed athlete from Mysore, has established himself as a regular presence on the professional circuit. He reached his highest ATP singles ranking of No. 595 in February 2024 and achieved his peak doubles ranking of No. 265 in July 2025. Notable achievements in his career include winning an ATP Challenger doubles title at the 2023 President’s Cup in Kazakhstan, partnering with fellow Indian Niki Kaliyanda Poonacha. He has also consistently represented Karnataka at the National Games and served as the flag bearer in the last two editions.

Sunil Yajaman, the Tournament Director of the Bengaluru Open, commented, “Prajwal Dev has been a dedicated performer on the professional circuit, contributing immensely to Indian tennis over the years. His commitment and effort make him a worthy recipient of the wild card for the Bengaluru Open 2026. The tournament has always focused on supporting Indian players by providing them opportunities at a high competitive level, and we are confident that Prajwal will seize this opportunity on home ground.”

Organized by the KSLTA in collaboration with the All India Tennis Association (AITA), the landmark 10th edition of the Bengaluru Open will showcase a formidable international lineup alongside India’s top players. With Dev entering the court as a wild card participant, the tournament reaffirms its role as a crucial platform for Indian tennis and promises spectators a week filled with world-class action.