A Chandigarh teen becomes India's top-ranked U-16 tennis player as Ribhav Saroha writes history.

Ribhav Saroha, a 14-year-old tennis prodigy from Chandigarh, has climbed to the No. 1 position in India’s U-16 rankings. His remarkable journey, marked by discipline, resilience, and mentorship, positions him as one of India’s brightest young tennis talents.

Jul 16, 2025 - 14:42
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A Chandigarh teen becomes India's top-ranked U-16 tennis player as Ribhav Saroha writes history.
A Chandigarh teen becomes India's top-ranked U-16 tennis player as Ribhav Saroha writes history.

A Breakthrough Moment for Chandigarh Tennis

As the first player from Chandigarh to earn the top national ranking in the U-16 division, Ribhav Saroha has made tennis history in India. An incredible accomplishment.

At just 14 years old, Ribhav’s rise marks a major breakthrough for tennis in a city not traditionally known for producing national champions in the sport.

Discipline and Drive Beyond His Years

Behind this feat lies an unshakable work ethic. Ribhav trains five hours daily under Portuguese coach Marco Seruca at the Lake Sports Academy. His sessions include a rigorous mix of physical conditioning, on-court drills, match play, and tactical analysis. According to his coach, Ribhav shows a maturity “rarely seen at this age,” not just in his playing style but in how he handles pressure and setbacks.

 Inspired by Global Icons

As a fervent tennis enthusiast, Ribhav finds motivation in players like as Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner.

In fact, he recently styled his hair like Sinner’s showing how deeply the sport influences every aspect of his life. His parents, both professionals, have played a strong supporting role, ensuring he balances academics with sports while staying grounded.

From Local Circuits to National Spotlight

Ribhav’s ascent didn’t happen overnight. He began playing at the age of 7, gradually working his way up the rankings by dominating the regional circuits. His consistent performances in AITA tournaments over the last year, including multiple titles, finally propelled him to the national No. 1 spot on June 16.

 The Road Ahead

While the spotlight is now firmly on Ribhav, his team is focused on long-term goals. The next phase includes participating in international ITF junior events and building his physical strength to compete at the senior level. With the right guidance, he’s well-positioned to make a mark on the global stage in the coming years.

 

Conclusion:

Ribhav Saroha’s rise is more than a personal victory it’s a turning point for Chandigarh’s sporting ecosystem. His journey exemplifies how talent, when nurtured with discipline and support, can transcend regional limitations and shine on a national level.