NEW DELHI: The Soft Tennis Championship in Greater Noida has undergone a last-minute change. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has denied visas to Pakistan and Bangladesh players, preventing their participation. However, the event will move forward with athletes from 18 other countries, ensuring a competitive tournament.
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Visa Denial Alters Event
The Soft Tennis Federation of India (STFI) is organizing the 2nd India International Soft Tennis Championship (ISTC) & 1st South Asian Soft Tennis Championship 2025. The tournament is being held at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex, Greater Noida, from March 17 to 22, 2025.
This prestigious event had originally planned for 200 players from 20 nations to compete. However, due to diplomatic policies, the MEA refused visas to teams from Pakistan and Bangladesh. Players from 18 other nations, including Iran, have been granted entry.
Despite this development, organizers led by Abhishek Kaushik have respected and accepted the decision. The event is expected to proceed without disruptions, with strong participation from other international teams.
Top Players to Watch
While two nations are absent, the tournament still boasts some of the best soft tennis players from around the world. Several high-profile athletes are set to compete:
- Jay Meena: Indiaโs top-ranked player and a five-time national champion.
- Aadhya Tiwari: Ranked world No. 3 in mixed doubles, won a bronze medal at the 2024 World Championships in South Korea.
- Tanushree Pandey: Secured silver in the Under-21 womenโs singles at the 2024 World Soft Tennis Championship in Jingshan, China. She notably defeated a Japanese opponent in the quarter-finals.
- Anik Patel: A former traditional tennis player who transitioned to soft tennis, winning 17 international and 71 national medals.
- Muskan Yadav: Claimed three bronze medals at the ISTF World Tour Soft Tennis Championship in Pattaya, Thailand, in November 2024.
- Jainin Vegda: A Gujarat-based international player who has expressed excitement for the upcoming tournament.
Event Proceeds as Planned
Despite the absence of Pakistan and Bangladesh, the Soft Tennis Championship remains a high-profile event. With 18 nations competing, the tournament is expected to showcase elite-level talent and intense matches.
The event has received official recognition from the International Soft Tennis Federation (ISTF) and the Asian Soft Tennis Federation (ASTF), adding to its significance on the global stage. The Soft Tennis Championship continues to reinforce Indiaโs growing role in hosting international sporting events while navigating diplomatic considerations.
