Sania Mirza to Lead India in Inaugural WPL

India, 6 January 2026 — Sania Mirza has been appointed as the mentor for the inaugural Women's Premier League (WPL), set to commence in Mumbai on 15 January 2026. The six-team tournament is a significant step towards promoting women's tennis in India, aiming to provide a platform for emerging talents and boost the sport's popularity in the region.

The announcement was made by the All India Tennis Association (AITA) in a press conference on Friday. Mirza, a former doubles world No. 1 and a prominent figure in Indian tennis, expressed her enthusiasm about nurturing the next generation of players. "It's an exciting time for women's tennis in India. The WPL is a wonderful opportunity to inspire young athletes," she stated.

The league will feature a mix of Indian and international players, with matches scheduled to be played across various cities including Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Each team will consist of five players, with a focus on doubles and mixed doubles matches.

Organizers hope that the WPL will not only enhance the competitive landscape for female players but also attract more viewership and sponsorships for women's tennis. This initiative aligns with the global movement towards gender equality in sports.

The WPL is expected to become an annual event, with plans to expand the number of participating teams and international collaborations in the coming years.