Vaishnavi Adkar's Remarkable Tennis Turnaround: From Doubt to National Team Selection
Pune-born tennis talent Vaishnavi Adkar has opened up about the profound introspection and renewed determination that fueled her stunning rise this season, culminating in her first ITF W35 title and a coveted spot on the Indian team for the upcoming Billie Jean King Cup. The 21-year-old's journey from questioning her path to breaking into the national squad is a testament to mental resilience and strategic change.
A Season of Renewed Focus and Joy
"Coming into this year, I wasn't really thinking much about the results because last year was pretty tough and I didn't get the results that I wanted," Adkar confessed. "I was starting to question some things. So one of my biggest goals was to enjoy being on court and just letting myself feel that joy again." This shift in mindset proved transformative, as she reached the final of a W100 event in Bengaluru last month before securing a double triumph at the W35 event in Kalaburagi.
Adkar emphasized her love for the sport's competitive nature, stating, "I am someone who likes the competitiveness the sport has to give and even the struggles. Especially in Bangalore, except the first round, all matches were against higher-ranked opponents. This was my chance to prove myself, to show I am capable of beating players ranked way higher."
The Pivotal Move to Bengaluru
The cornerstone of her resurgence was a bold decision to relocate her training base to Bengaluru at the start of the season, joining the Rohan Bopanna Tennis Academy. "Moving was a big decision. I live in a joint family, it was tough for everyone. But I knew this was necessary because at this point in my career, I needed change, especially in the perspective of inputs I was getting," she explained.
Adkar highlighted the invaluable guidance from Rohan Bopanna, whose experience allows him to understand a player's journey, and coach M Balachandran, who has extensive tournament-level expertise. "Since I started taking tennis seriously, I have been okay with doing whatever it takes to improve my game," she added, underscoring her commitment.
Rapid Rankings Climb and National Recognition
Her stellar performances resulted in a dramatic 224-spot jump in the world rankings, propelling her to become India's second-highest-ranked player at 466. This achievement earned her a place in the Billie Jean King Cup Asia-Oceania zonal tie squad, set for Delhi in April. "I knew this was sort of my last chance to make the team. I didn't want to just be a reserve; I wanted to be a main player. Being able to finally do it feels good and boosts my self-belief," Adkar shared.
Following her Kalaburagi success, where she won the doubles title with Ankita Raina and then defeated her for the singles crown, Vaishnavi has soared to a career-high ranking of 396.
Coach's Perspective on Mental Toughness
Coach Balachandran contextualized her effort, noting the challenges of adapting to different conditions. "Bangalore's surface was bouncy and faster, suiting her game. Kalaburagi was slower with heavier balls and hotter conditions. She had to rally, grind, and make adaptations, playing two matches daily in that heat. Winning singles and doubles there shows she can suffer and win matches," he observed.
He praised her mental fortitude, stating, "A lot of players don't handle pressure well after beating higher-ranked opponents. Her ability to grind in unsuitable conditions and get results across multiple days is impressive."
Recovery and Future Goals
Adkar credited her physio Isha Galgali for crucial support in recovery and hydration during the grueling Kalaburagi week. "We focused a lot on recovery because it was vital to last the week. The work we've been doing at the academy really helped," she said.
Looking ahead, Balachandran outlined short-term objectives: "The goal is to break into the top-300, which would open doors to W100 qualifiers. We're aiming for a WTA ranking that leads to Slam qualifiers and bigger events. India No. 1 or 2 is a by-product of that primary goal." Post-Billie Jean King Cup, plans include tournaments in the UK and clay events in Europe, with potential Asian Games selection on the horizon.
Adkar remains grounded, concluding, "I don't want to put unnecessary pressure. The goal is to enjoy what I'm doing, and it's been working well." Her journey from introspection to national team selection exemplifies how strategic changes and mental resilience can redefine a career.
