Indian tennis star Ankita Raina has urged fans to turn out in large numbers as India prepare to compete in the Billie Jean King Cup on home soil, calling the opportunity to play in front of a home crowd a major advantage for the team.
The prestigious women's team tennis tournament returns to India for the second time, having last been staged in the country in May 2025. With Delhi set to host the upcoming ties, the Indian squad has already begun training in local conditions as preparations gather pace.
"It's great, you know, it's happening in India for the second time last time it was in May in 2025 and we created history for the second time, so we are looking forward to repeat that and nothing better to have it at home," Raina said.
Having spent
time training at the venue earlier this week, the experienced campaigner highlighted the importance of crowd support, particularly in a team event where momentum can shift quickly.
"We've already been here a couple of days ago and we are training in these conditions. The important part is that when this event happens in India we have the crowd support which usually is tough to find outside and that's why we need people from Delhi to come in large numbers and support and cheer for us. "
Experience and Leadership Key to India's Campaign at Billie Jean King Cup
One of India's most experienced players, Raina reflected on her long journey in international tennis, describing her continued presence in the national team as both a privilege and responsibility.
"Yeah, like I mentioned, it's probably my 13th or 14th representation if I'm not wrong and I feel so blessed by saying this because I remember as a little girl it was a dream to play for India and I have been so fortunate and it's been the support of my family and of my team members and the sacrifices that has got me this far and in this position. "
She also spoke about her role within the team, particularly in guiding younger players and maintaining a positive dressing-room environment.
"Obviously I have been in the team and played so many ties, anything the girls need and I can say it's a bit easy for me to catch it because I have been in that position whenever I feel it and I just walk up to them and I say if there's anything they want to share or they want to ask we can go for it anytime. "
Raina credited former Indian tennis star Sania Mirza as a major influence on her leadership approach, having grown up observing her professionalism and mindset.
"Also when I first came to the team, Sanya was there who has also been a role model growing up and I obviously take things from her and observe how she talks, how she keeps the environment positive so yeah that's what I'm trying to do. "
Ankita Raina shares Doubles Plans and Tactical Flexibility
Raina confirmed that she remains ready to contribute in both singles and doubles whenever required, underlining her versatility as a key asset for India in team competitions.
"Yes, I do have plans for doubles and whenever it was needed, whether it was last year, I stepped onto the court with Pratna and this time Ritu Jha is in the team. We've played together before and we've done well, we've had some titles together so we know each other's game and I would say that we have that camaraderie which is needed. "
She also stressed her readiness to step into singles matches if called upon.
"And if need be, if I need to step into the court for singles, I'm always prepared anytime for the mission. "
Fitness and Scheduling Remain Top Priorities
Reflecting on how her game has evolved over the years, Raina highlighted the importance of managing physical and mental demands in professional tennis.
"I would say that tennis is a sport where it involves so much of everything. It's not just physical, it's mental, emotional, everything comes together and only then you get your best performances. "
With the calendar becoming increasingly demanding, she noted that careful planning and fitness management have become central to sustaining performance levels.
"So also in terms of, it's a sport after all so the career is up to a certain period so I think it's important that you schedule well. The scheduling is also very important and I would say stay healthy and fit. That's been on my mind for the last few years. "
With the Billie Jean King Cup returning to Indian soil, the home team will be aiming to build on past success and capitalise on familiar conditions.
For Raina and her teammates, the opportunity to compete in front of a home crowd represents both motivation and responsibility, as they look to deliver another memorable campaign for Indian tennis.
