As Wimbledon approaches its business end for 2024, My Kolkata caught up with India’s leading female tennis player, Ankita Raina. The 31-year-old, who was born in Ahmedabad, has competed in the singles as well as the doubles categories at SW19, most recently in 2021. Raina spoke about her association with the All England Lawn Tennis Club, watching Wimbledon in Hindi, her favourite Wimbledon memories, and more. Edited excerpts from the conversation follow.
My Kolkata: What is the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) doing differently for India this Wimbledon?
Ankita Raina: The AELTC is promoting this year’s Wimbledon in India with a few events in Delhi, which includes showcasing the ladies’ singles final (on July 13) at the British embassy. They are also getting influencers to try and promote the event. The AELTC has partnered with Star Sports Network to bring Hindi commentary to enhance the experience for viewers in India.
‘Hindi coverage is taking Wimbledon to rural areas in India, removing the language barrier’
How has the experience of watching Wimbledon in Hindi been for you so far?
It’s been great! Hindi coverage is taking Wimbledon to rural areas in India, removing the language barrier. Tennis is an expensive sport, which can be difficult to get a hang of [for non-English speakers], especially with the scoring system and the rules. I’ve also found the Hindi commentary to be more engaging!
How much did being a fan of Wimbledon shape your Wimbledon journey as a player?
Watching Wimbledon on TV made me dream about wanting to be there one day. I learnt a lot from watching the players on TV. Building a connection with Wimbledon as a fan made me better as a player. I hope many more Indians get the opportunity to do the same with the rise in coverage options.
‘Wimbledon is the favourite Slam for most of the players I know on the circuit’
What sets Wimbledon apart from other Grand Slams?
I feel it’s the history and heritage at Wimbledon that makes it so special. Wimbledon is the favourite Slam for most of the players I know on the circuit. Personally, grass is my favourite surface. So I really enjoy being at Wimbledon. The atmosphere and the crowd, coupled with the all-white clothing, also add to the appeal.
How do you see the future of Indian tennis, especially in the context of Wimbledon?
I think engaging youngsters in Wimbledon as fans is really important. Often it’s these fans who are inspired to take up the game. We’ve had a fair amount of Indian representation at Wimbledon over the years, from the likes of Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi and Sania Mirza to Rohan Bopanna, Sumit Nagal, and more. That representation always helps when it comes to finding new stars who can take the game forward.
Most underrated thing about Wimbledon? ‘The weather’
Customary cloudy skies at SW19. Getty Images
Time for some rapid fire questions. Your favourite Wimbledon match as a viewer
Serena Williams against Sania Mirza
Your favourite Wimbledon match as a player
Against Vitalia Diatchenko in 2019
An opponent you would want to face at Wimbledon
Iga Swiatek
The most underrated thing about Wimbledon
The weather
Lastly, your upcoming goals
Getting back into the main draws for Grand Slams
