Pune: A broad smile illuminated Maaya Rajeshwaran Revathi's face when she received her first India jersey earlier this week. However, she quickly clarified, “This is my first time with the senior team; I have played a few matches at the junior level.”

At just 15 years old, she is currently in Pune as a reserve for the Indian team participating in the Asia/Oceania Group 1 stage of the Billie Jean King Cup. While she has been patiently observing from the sidelines, she is absorbing the experience of competing in this prestigious women's tennis event. Although she is officially classified as a junior due to her age, the distinctions between age categories are becoming increasingly blurred. In February, as an unranked player, she advanced from the qualifying rounds to the semi-finals of the WTA 125 Mumbai Open.

“I have no negative experiences to report; instead, there were numerous positives,” she shared with HT at the Balewadi Tennis Stadium. “I was unaware of the events unfolding around me. It was only after the tournament concluded that I realized I had achieved something significant. I believe that was a major breakthrough for me, serving as a launchpad for my senior career.”

Her performance in Mumbai captivated Indian tennis enthusiasts and also drew the attention of Rafael Nadal, under whose academy she trains. “He congratulated me on my achievement,” she recalled of her encounter with the 22-time Grand Slam champion. “He inquired about my training, offered some advice, and discussed with my coaches what I need to focus on.”

Following her time in Mumbai, she dedicated herself to the academy in Mallorca to enhance her tennis skills. “I feel like I’m becoming more professional now, both on and off the court,” she remarked. “At the academy, they highlighted the areas I need to improve. I have many supporters around me, and they all encourage me to remain humble, assuring me they will assist in my progress.”

One player she has recently observed, who embodies this grounded approach, is Alexandra Eala, a graduate of the academy. The 19-year-old from the Philippines made headlines by reaching the semi-finals at the Miami Masters last month. “That was certainly an inspiring performance,” Maaya noted, having practiced alongside Eala. “She is incredibly humble and is always willing to hit and converse with anyone.”

Maaya has also been an enthusiastic practice partner for her teammates in Pune. The day before the tournament, she engaged in practice matches with Shrivalli Bhamadipaty, Sahaja Yamalapalli, and Vaidehi Chaudhari. Shortly thereafter, she was working on doubles with Ankita Raina and Prarthana Thombare.

Although she will not be making her debut in the competition this year, she has played a crucial role in the team’s preparations. This is all part of her strategic plan for her tennis career. However, one aspect she has not been particularly enthusiastic about is a question posed by Nadal. “He inquired about my schoolwork,” Maaya said with a shy smile. “I have been learning Spanish. Honestly, no one enjoys something they are unfamiliar with.”

What she is excelling in, however, is her tennis, which she continues to develop rapidly.

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