Don’t miss the latest developments in business and finance.

Former tennis star Nirupama's autobiography released

Image
Press Trust of India Bangalore
Last Updated : Aug 13 2013 | 10:29 PM IST
Two yesteryear women sporting stars came together at the KSLTA Stadium here today as the former sprint queen Ashwini Nachappa released the pioneering Indian tennis star Nirupama Sanjeev's autobiography titled 'Moonballer'.
Nirupama, who became national champion at 14 and was the first Indian woman to win a first round tie in 1998 Australian Open, said her story was about the struggles, hardships and her quest for excellence in the game.
"I wrote it as a motivational book for all those who face similar situations, though things have changed a lot in Indian tennis," she said.
Recalling her struggling days, Nirupama said, "It was not an easy journey for me and I took up the game because I wanted to prove my family that I too can be a player than being a mere ball girl for my brother.
"My coach was my father, who was a self-taught player and coach. I made my decision to turn a pro and to stay and play in Europe when I was 17. It was not an easy choice either, with no sponsor and one had to do everything on my own," Nirupama said.
Recalling the financial constraints she had faced, Nirupama said, "I remember the time when I had to opt out out of doubles tie of an ITF tournament in Barcelona because I could not afford to stay in a hotel. Nevertheless, it was a satisfying career and I chose to write after I came out of retirement after a 10-year break," she said.
Married to Sanjeev, a software professional in the US, where she has her 'Niru Tennis Academy,' Nirupama urged the youngsters not give up on their dreams.

Also Read

Nachappa echoed Nirupama's sentiments and said "both of us achieved what we could due to parental support."
Sports, Nachappa said, was a great leveler in life.
"It teaches one to handle emotions, success and defeats and many a life lessons could be learnt in a sports arena."
Nachappa disclosed that she too was writing her own book.
"I am half way through," she said.
C S Sunder Raju, secretary of the KSLTA and joint secretary of the AITA, who was the chief guest along with Ashwini, said, "The achievements of Nirupama, in spite of all odds and that she wrote a book on it, was commendable and truly inspiring.

More From This Section

First Published: Aug 13 2013 | 10:29 PM IST

Next Story