Adkar and Bhosale become first all-Indian pair in WTA doubles final
The Maharashtra duo defeated second seeds Weronika Falkowska and Alana Smith in a Chennai Open semifinal on Saturday.
Vaishnavi Adkar and Rutuja Bhosale became the first all-Indian pair to reach a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Tour-level doubles final after defeating second seeds Weronika Falkowska and Alana Smith at the Chennai Open on Saturday. The Maharashtra duo won the semifinal match 6-2, 2-6, 10-8, according to reports by The Hindu and Telangana Today.
The Indian pair took control in the first set, building a 4-1 lead before wrapping up the set without resistance. However, the momentum shifted in the second set as the Polish-American combination of Falkowska and Smith levelled the match. Adkar, who had previously required medical attention for her left thigh during a singles match, struggled with energy levels during the second set, according to Rediff.
In the deciding super tie-break, Falkowska and Smith initially took a 3-0 lead. The Indians fought back to stay in contention, with Adkar eventually sealing the victory with a forehand down the line. Bhosale, who had been battling a left hip issue and illness during the week, noted that having her support system present was helpful.
Bhosale said it was an incredible feeling to achieve the milestone on home soil with a partner she enjoys playing with. Adkar said the pair reminded themselves to keep attacking and to enjoy the moment, noting the amazing atmosphere provided by the home crowd.
The achievement is significant as no all-Indian combination has previously reached a final at the main WTA Tour level. While Shikha Uberoi and her sister Neha reached finals in 2005, Neha represented the USA, making them an Indo-American pair, Rediff reported.