How Marquee Players Will Ignite Tennis Premier League Competition
Home » Sports » How Marquee Players Will Ignite Tennis Premier League Competition Source: PTI - Edited By: Rediff Sports Desk October 06, 2026 15:58 IST 3 Minutes Read The Tennis Premier League is set to ignite with the announcement of Rohan Bopanna and Rinky Hijikata as marquee players, promising an electrifying season featuring top international and Indian tennis talent ahead of the October 12 auction. Photograph: Ciro De Luca/Reuters Key Points Rohan Bopanna and Rinky Hijikata are confirmed as marquee players for the Tennis Premier League (TPL).
The TPL player auction is scheduled for October 12 in Mumbai, setting the stage for team formations. The league will feature a strong international contingent, including Roman Burruchaga, Terence Atmane, and Dino Prizmic.
Matches for TPL Season 8 will take place from December 8-13, showcasing a fast-paced, 25-point format. The TPL aims to combine experienced players with young Indian talent, fostering competitive tennis.
1 Rohan Bopanna and 2023 Australian Open men's doubles winner Rinky Hijikata were on Tuesday revealed as marquee players of their respective teams at the Tennis Premier League (TPL) ahead of the player auction on October 12 in Mumbai. Bopanna will represent Gurgaon Grand Slammers.
"Every year, the league gets stronger, and I love the team environment and energy the format brings. This year, the competition will be very high, with a great mix of experienced players and young Indian talent," said Bopanna.
Star Players Join TPL Teams Argentina's world No. 60 Roman Burruchaga, representing the Kolkata Thunder Blades, will be the highest-ranked singles player in the league.
Hijikata, who will represent the Rajasthan Rangers, has already tasted Grand Slam success. He also reached the 2025 Wimbledon men's doubles final and achieved a career-high doubles ranking of world No.
"I'm really excited to be part of the Rajasthan Rangers and make my Kia TPL debut this season. The 25-point format makes the league very exciting, and I'm looking forward to experience the energy in Hyderabad.
International Talent Boosts Competition Frenchman Terence Atmane, nicknamed The Magician", will headline the Mumbai Royals. The Lucknow Blazers will be represented by Czechia's Dalibor Svrcina, who returns for a second consecutive season with the same team.