Indian tennis could receive a major boost in 2028, with plans underway to organise four consecutive WTA 125 tournaments across different states, even as the country prepares to lose its only WTA Tour-level event next year.
Tamil Nadu Tennis Association president Vijay Amritraj has revealed that discussions have begun to bring four WTA 125 competitions to India during January and February 2028.
The proposed tournaments would be hosted in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana and Maharashtra, potentially creating a month-long stretch of international women’s tennis in the country.
“The plan is to put four WTA 125s – one each in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana and Maharashtra – in January-February 2028. I have already brought up the subject. And they have tentatively blocked some dates for me,” the 72-year-old Amritraj told reporters on Tuesday.
The development comes as Chennai prepares to host what is expected to be its final WTA 250 Chennai Open from November 2 to 8 at the SDAT Stadium in Nungambakkam.
The tournament, which will be held for the third time, is set to move to Manila in 2027 following a decision by the Women’s Tennis Association and tournament licence-holder Octagon.
The move is aimed at taking advantage of the growing popularity of Filipino tennis sensation Alexandra Eala, who is currently ranked World No. 20.
Manila is expected to host its first WTA Tour-level tournament during the same calendar window next year, leaving India without an event at that level.
However, Amritraj remains optimistic about bringing international tennis back to Chennai if an opportunity becomes available.
The former Indian tennis star indicated that Chennai could step in to host a tournament in 2027 should changes occur in the international calendar.
Several tennis events are scheduled to take place in West Asia early next year, but increasing regional tensions could potentially disrupt those plans.
“When something comes up, Chennai is ready. Just give me a chance of at least two weeks to make sure I can get the event funded,” Amritraj said.
Chennai has a rich history of organising ATP and WTA competitions, while Mumbai has already established itself as a regular WTA 125 destination, hosting the event for the past three seasons.
The WTA 125 category sits between the main women’s professional tour and the ITF circuit, offering players valuable opportunities to compete at a higher international level.
Although India’s proposed four-tournament schedule remains subject to confirmation, the initiative could strengthen the country’s presence on the international tennis calendar and provide more opportunities for Indian players to compete on home soil.
