CHENNAI: It’s been seven years since the Indian Premier League (IPL) took India by storm and its undisputed success has paved the way for other sports to follow suit in hope of making their own fortunes and fans. The existing leagues of hockey, badminton, kabaddi and football now must welcome another member into the fold – tennis.
Despite it being a somewhat niche sport, maybe all tennis needs is a way for Indian fans to be able to connect with it in an easy manner. If so, they will be spoiled silly, come Monday, as tennis icon Vijay Amritraj’s Champions Tennis League (CTL) kicks off its inaugural edition in New Delhi.
Although IPL has laid the platform for leagues to thrive in the country, its greatest strength is that cricket runs deep in the veins of most Indians and the sport is inexpensive for the common man to enjoy. “Cricket has exclusive viewership and at least 75% of the revenue comes from India. The biggest problem with tennis is that it has a packed calendar. How do we get to see international tennis in India if we don’t hold it in different parts of the country?” founder Amritraj says.
A recent addition to CTL’s list of stars is 14-time Grand Slam champion Leander Paes. The Indian, much loved for his Davis Cup heroics over the last 23 years, would be a massive draw and delight spectators. Amritraj adds: “Leander’s inclusion is absolutely great, given that David Ferrer strained his back and didn’t want to play at 25%. He grew up with us and it’s always a privilege to have him around. The only missing Indian is Yuki Bhambri. Because of his ranking jump, Yuki is at the ATP University to complete four days there – otherwise he can’t play on tour the following year.”
In an attempt to make fans get involved in important decisions on court, CTL is running a radio contest across the county called ‘superfan’. The chosen home team fans have to hit a given target and if they succeed, their team gets a point. It should encourage fans to get involved. “It’s a boost for tennis in India with so many international stars participating. I’m very glad to be part of it,” World No 266 Saketh Myneni, who plays for Pune Marathas, says.
But apart from this, top quality tennis is the reason that’ll draw in the crowds. Even the All India Tennis Association (AITA) thinks the idea holds promise. “We are working closely with CTL and the event is mandated by us. It’s a well concieved event and a great occasion for Indians to see tennis in six different cities,” AITA president Anil Khanna opines.
CTL’s broadcast partner Sony Six, who also brings IPL to fans across the country, is glad to associate with the fledgling league and hopes that it too finds success in Indian markets. “The main thing we are looking for is local connect and association. That’s the primary motive for us. This event should gain traction and it is a great opportunity for everyone to see legends. It should do as well as other non-tennis leagues in the country,” Sony Six business head Prasana Krishnan says.
However, there are others who think the league could do with better focus and planning. Former Davis Cupper Jaidip Mukerjea feels there needs to be more focus on Indian players and juniors. “It’s a novel idea, but ideally the league should follow the IPL system. Instead for so many top players, there should be more Indians so that they get exposure. Also, there doesn’t seem to be too much awareness outside of tennis circles about CTL. Maybe it needs to be promoted in a more out-and-out manner like the ISL.”