'This is what I love' - Divyanshi Bhowmick becomes first Indian in 36 years to win Asian Cadet Girls’ singles title

Divyanshi Bhowmick is the first Indian in 21 years to an Asian title in table tennis.

In 2020, when the world came to a halt, a young girl in Mumbai took up table tennis as a hobby. Four years later, Divyanshi Bhowmick, now 14, has made history as the first Indian in 36 years to win the Asian Cadet Girls’ Singles Title.

On July 1, 2025, she became the first Indian in 21 years and-only fifth-ever to win an Asian title across all age groups, defeating three Chinese and one Japanese paddler on her way to the gold.

Khel Now spoke to Divyanshi just before this incredible win, during the Ultimate Table Tennis Season 6, when she opened up about her journey so far.

“We had a table at home and my dad used to play,” shared Divyanshi Bhowmick, 14, in an exclusive conversation. “During lockdown, I started playing in the mornings and evenings, and eventually, I just started loving it.”

What began as a way to pass time soon turned into something much bigger. Within a year, Divyanshi Bhowmick was competing in her first state-ranking event. “I won bronze and made it to the state team. That was such a big thing for me,” she recalled with a shy smile.

Since then, the medals have kept coming — ten WTT Youth Contender titles, a silver at the World Youth Championships, and now, a major continental title— Girls’ Singles U15 Asian Cadet Table Tennis Champion.

Before her Asian triumph, one of Divyanshi’s biggest moments came at the WTT Star Contender in Chennai last year, where she stunned World No. #64 Giorgia Piccolin in the round of 16.

“I wasn’t even thinking about winning that match,” she said about the Piccolin upset. “We just wanted to enjoy and learn. That’s what we’d planned. Winning was a really nice surprise.”

Also Read: List of Indian doubles pairs to reach top 10 of table tennis rankings

Divyanshi’s game is different from most players her age. She plays with long pimple rubber on her backhand—a tricky, unpredictable style that even seasoned players find difficult to deal with. “I started using long pimples during lockdown itself,” she shared.

“Later, I began watching Manika di’s (Manika Batra) matches and picked up a lot from her. We use the same rubber. She’s my idol.”

In fact, if she ever got to play doubles with anyone from the Indian team, her choice is clear: “Manika Batra. I love her attitude.”

It’s not just her playing style that stands out; Divyanshi also seems unusually calm for someone who competes at the highest level in her age group. “I don’t really get nervous,” she shared. “I just talk to my dad before matches. That’s it.”

Her dad is more than just a calming voice. He’s also her coach—training with her, analyzing games, and helping her improve bit by bit. Her mom travels with her to almost every tournament, and her older sister often joins in for practice. “So no, I don’t feel like I’m missing out on school friends or anything,” she laughed. “I have so many TT friends now.”

She’s currently in Class 10 but doesn’t attend regular classes. “My school is very supportive. I just go for exams. Between training sessions, I try to study as much as I can.” She has planned to take up humanities next year.

Also Read: Teenager Divyanshi Bhowmick outlines her goals: Olympic medal, breaking into top 10

Earlier in 2025, she was picked to be part of the Dream UTT Juniors with Chennai Lions, a big opportunity for someone her age to share space with seniors and soak in the pro circuit.

“It’s been amazing,” she said. “We eat, travel, and train together. Just being around that environment teaches you so much.”

When asked which country she finds toughest to play against, the answer is immediate. “China. They’re just the best. So strong technically and mentally.”

At the time, it was a reflection of genuine respect. But just days later, she would go on to defeat three Chinese opponents en route to her historic Asian Cadet title.

And maybe that’s what defines Divyanshi the most. She’s composed, grounded, and in no rush. Just a steady focus, quiet confidence, and a pure love for the sport.

“I don’t listen to music before matches. I don’t really have a ritual. I just love playing,” she said, and that feels like the truest thing about her.

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