At just 17 years old, Shreyas Patil has already left an indelible mark on the world of junior tennis. Last year’s Boys U-18 champion at the Baale BPS Open, he has successfully retained his title in the tournament’s 2025 edition, cementing his dominance in the tournament and sport. His journey in the competition has been nothing short of spectacular, proving yet again that he belongs among the best. Adding to his list of accolades, he was also honoured as the ‘Emerging Player of the Tournament’ at the prestigious Gadre Gaspar Dias Open 2025 this year. Competing against seasoned players in the men’s singles category, he reached the quarterfinals, defeating some of the strongest competitors on the circuit.
For 17-year-old rising tennis star, Shreyas Patil, his tryst with tennis began when he held a racquet for the first time when he was just ten.
“I was in Delhi when I held my first racquet… My parents thought of enrolling my brother in a tennis academy near our house. I joined along and as luck would have it, I was fascinated with the sport the moment I saw players in action. I knew this was going to be my sport,” he recalls.
That early fascination soon turned into an unyielding passion. With unwavering dedication, he enrolled in an academy, practiced relentlessly and most importantly, found sheer joy in the game.
His first coach, Abid Ali, played a pivotal role in shaping his technique and mindset. “The biggest influence in my game has been my first coach, Abid Ali, who relentlessly focused on my skills and made me better. I had shortcomings in the beginning, but it was my coach who motivated me and guided me through this journey.”
His family, too, has been his backbone. From enrolling him in tournaments to ensuring he had the best equipment, their support has been instrumental in his growth.
Like every athlete, Shreyas has faced his share of challenges. Tennis has taught him resilience — how to take every obstacle head-on, much like a down-the-line forehand winner. His quarterfinal loss
in the open men’s category to Siddharth Nunes at the recent Gadre Gaspar Dias Open was one such moment of learning. “I lost 6-2. But this didn’t affect me at all. Sid is a far better player and I learned a lot from him. It was my good luck that I got to play with such a great opponent and I really enjoyed that match.” Every setback has only fuelled his determination to improve. His father has always emphasised the importance of learning from opponents and Shreyas has taken that advice to heart.
The Baale BPS Open 2025 tennis tournament holds a special place in his heart, not just for the title but for the memories it carries — the support of his mentors, the camaraderie with fellow players and the presence of his family in the stands, cheering him on.
Shreyas has worked hard on refining his game. He has focused on improving his backhand and incorporating volley shots into his strategy. “I have improved a great deal on my backhand. I decided to come more towards the net and play some volley shots along with confident down-the-line winners”. His matches in the tournament have been fiercely competitive, but he embraces the challenge, knowing it only strengthens his skills.
Winning the title again has been a moment of immense joy. “More than that, I was extremely elated to see the look on my parents’ faces when I won the title. For any player, a win is a great morale boost. This victory means the world to me.” But for Shreyas, the essence of tennis extends beyond victory — it is about growth, resilience and the love for the sport.
One of his proudest moments came at the Gadre Gaspar Dias Open 2025, where he was recognised as the Emerging Player of the Tournament. “I wasn’t aware of the recognition. I came to watch the men’s and women’s singles final on the prize distribution day. A moment later, the tournament director and coach, Deepak Nahak, informed me that I was being named the ‘Emerging Player of the Tournament’. For a moment, I was speechless. It was one of the most special moments of my life.”
Beyond the court, Shreyas finds joy in cooking and playing the keyboard. He believes that these activities refresh his mind and bring balance to his rigorous training schedule. However, tennis remains his true passion—more than just a sport, it has become an integral part of his life. “When it comes to my tennis journey, I would just like to say that all the credit goes to my mentors, coaches and my family. They have given me all the support that any player can ask for. Tennis is not just a sport for me — it has become a part of my life”.
As he looks ahead, Shreyas remains committed to both his studies and his sport, embracing whatever challenges and opportunities come his way. With talent, determination and an unbreakable spirit, his journey is just beginning — and the best is yet to come.
