Mumbai Open WTA 125: Rutuja Bhosale, Thombare Lead Strong Doubles Line-up
NEW DELHI: The doubles main draw for the fifth edition of the Mumbai Open WTA 125K Series was unveiled on Tuesday at the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA), setting the stage for a competitive week of tennis from February 4 to 8 in Mumbai.
Top-seeded Indian player Rutuja Bhosale will partner Thailand’s Peangtarn Plipuech as the leading pair in the doubles draw. The tournament is expected to showcase a strong mix of Indian and international talent.
The Mumbai Open has emerged as one of India’s most significant women’s tennis events, offering players valuable ranking points and international exposure. Since its inception, the WTA 125K tournament has served as a crucial platform for Indian players to compete against high-quality global opposition on home soil.
This year’s doubles draw reflects that growing stature, featuring established names and promising young players across several countries.
Rutuja and Plipuech will open their campaign against Thailand’s Mananchaya Sawangkaew and Argentina’s Nicole Fossa Huergo.
India’s No. 4 and No. 5 doubles players, Ankita Raina and Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, will team up against France’s Leolia Jeanjean and Japan’s Naima Karamoko.
India’s No. 2 doubles player Prarthana Thombare will partner 21-year-old Alevtina Ibragimova. The pair will face second seeds Elena Pridanika and Polina Iatcenko.
Defending singles champion Darja Semenistaja will compete in doubles with Zuzzana Pawlikowska, while Japan’s Hiroko Kuwata and South Korea’s Sohyun Park will form another notable pairing.
Reactions
Rutuja Bhosale, who has enjoyed consistent form in recent months, said playing at MSLTA holds special meaning for her.
“I have been playing here since I was 10 years old. To see a WTA event happening at this venue feels unreal. It is extremely exciting to see platforms like MSLTA helping Indian tennis grow,” she said.
Prarthana Thombare, runner-up in the previous edition, also expressed her enthusiasm.
“It’s very enjoyable to play in India, especially in Maharashtra. This is my fourth year at this tournament. It’s great to be back in Mumbai, and hopefully, I can lift the trophy this time,” she said.
Organisers said the strong line-up reflects the tournament’s rising profile on the international circuit.
The Mumbai Open has become an important stepping stone for Indian women players seeking regular exposure at WTA-level events. By hosting international competitors, the tournament helps bridge the gap between domestic and global competition.
For players like Bhosale and Thombare, strong performances at home can significantly improve rankings and confidence ahead of overseas tours. The event also encourages younger players to pursue professional tennis by showcasing career pathways within India.
With growing crowds and media attention, the Mumbai Open continues to strengthen Maharashtra’s reputation as a major hub for Indian tennis.
Conclusion
The release of the doubles draw signals the beginning of another high-quality edition of the Mumbai Open WTA 125K Series. With several Indian players in contention and strong international participation, the tournament promises intense competition and valuable learning opportunities.
As matches get underway, attention will be firmly on home favourites hoping to make the most of familiar conditions and home support.
Our Final Thoughts
The Mumbai Open has steadily evolved into a cornerstone event for women’s tennis in India. This year’s doubles draw reflects both depth and diversity, with Indian players competing alongside established international names.
For Rutuja Bhosale, Prarthana Thombare, and their peers, the tournament represents more than just prize money—it is a chance to build momentum, inspire young athletes, and strengthen India’s presence on the global tennis map. Continued support for such events will be key to sustaining long-term growth in the sport.
