Indian Tennis Players Earn Wildcard Spots for Kalaburagi Open W35

The Kalaburagi Open W35 is set to feature four Indian players who have received wildcard entries into the main draw. With qualifying rounds starting soon, additional Indian talents will compete for a chance to join the main event. This tournament marks the return of international women's tennis to Kalaburagi after a decade, highlighting Karnataka's commitment to promoting tennis. The event promises a competitive atmosphere with a prize purse of USD 30,000 and participation from players across 11 nations. Discover more about this exciting tournament and its significance for Indian tennis.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 26, 2026, 20:41 IST

Indian Players Secure Wildcard Entries

Four Indian tennis players, Jennifer Luikham, Soha Sadiq, Sama Chevika Reddy, and Amodini Naik, have been awarded wildcard entries into the main draw of the upcoming Kalaburagi Open W35. This tournament is set to take place from March 2 to March 8, with qualifying rounds commencing on March 1. The event will showcase local talent prominently at the Chandrashekhar Patil Stadium in Kalaburagi, as stated in a press release from the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association (KSLTA).

Competitive Pathway to Main Draw

The competition for a spot in the main draw is intense, with five additional Indian players receiving qualifying wildcards. Potugari Chandana, Omna Yadav Davunaboina, Harshini Nagaraj, Snigdha Kanta, and Hridayeshi Pai will participate in the qualifying rounds, aiming to secure a place in the final draw. These qualifiers serve as a critical platform, offering exposure against international players and the opportunity to earn essential ranking points.

International Tennis Returns to Kalaburagi

The 2026 edition of the tournament is particularly significant as it marks the return of international women's tennis to Kalaburagi after a ten-year hiatus, with the last professional women's event held in 2015. The revival of this tournament underscores Karnataka's growing reputation as a reliable host for international tennis events and reflects the state's ongoing dedication to enhancing the women's professional circuit.

KSLTA's Commitment to Indian Talent

"The Kalaburagi Open W35 represents another key milestone for tennis in Karnataka. We are thrilled to see four talented Indian players receive main draw wildcards. Events of this caliber are vital for providing young athletes with international exposure and important ranking opportunities at home. KSLTA is dedicated to creating more pathways for Indian players to compete, advance, and thrive on the global stage," stated Sunil Yajaman, Joint Secretary of KSLTA.

Tournament Overview and Prize Money

This tournament boasts a prize pool of USD 30,000, along with valuable WTA ranking points, and is anticipated to attract players from over 11 countries, promising a week filled with high-quality competition in North Karnataka.