Shrivalli Rashmikaa Bhamidipaty, currently ranked 325 in the world, secured a convincing victory over former top-40 player Aleksandra Krunic (WTA 301) in the second round of the WTA L&T 125 Mumbai Open. Bhamidipaty won the match 6-4, 6-0, overcoming a slow start in the first set to dominate the second. 31 year old Aleksandra was ranked as high as WTA 39 in the past.
Transcript fro her press conference is below
Congratulations on your win! You dominated the second set. Can you tell us about that?
Thank you! I had a slow start in the first set, but I’m glad I managed to win it. In the second set, I just focused on my tennis, trying to play my best and keep the rhythm going. I went in with confidence.
You faced a tough opponent, Aleksandra Krunic, who was once ranked as high as WTA 39. How did you analyze her skills and implement your strategy in the match?
She’s definitely a wonderful player with a lot of experience, having been a top 40 player. She’s also very crafty on the court. My strategy was to fight for every point, do what I do best, make her play an extra ball, and just play my best tennis.
This is your first quarter-final at the WTA 125k level. How much of a confidence boost does this give you, knowing you can compete at this level and go deeper in the tournament?
It’s definitely a great boost! I feel much more confident. I’m glad that last year I reached the second round, and this year I’ve made it to the quarter-finals. I’m looking forward to tomorrow’s match and seeing what happens.
You have a big game, going for winners from both your forehand and backhand. Growing up, did you model your game around any particular tennis player? Who were your inspirations?
Honestly, I got into tennis because of Maria Sharapova and her dresses! So, I can’t really say I modeled my game after anyone in particular. But right now, I’m really inspired by Aryna Sabalenka. And in men’s tennis, I like Novak Djokovic.
Any plans to get a tattoo like Sabalenka?
Not really. I’m not a tattoo person.