Just like her playing days, 48-year-old Nirupama Sanjeev gives her all in the commentary box. Her years of playing on the WTA Tour including Grand Slams and later stints at coaching children, aspiring professionals, and her daughter have given her the added perspective of a player, parent and coach.

It was all evident at the WTA 250 Chennai Open 2025 at the SDAT-Nungambakkam Stadium. The first Indian woman player to win a round at a Grand Slam (1998 Australian Open) spoke to The Hindu on a variety of issues including what the current Indian players lack, the way forward and her views on on-court coaching, which was officially introduced in January this year.

“A good coach sitting on the sidelines can make a lot of difference,” said the former India No.1 and the 1998 Asian Games bronze me

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