After Asian Games success, Rutuja Bhosale eyes Paris Olympics berth

She recently clinched gold medal in mixed doubles alongside Rohan Bopanna.

Riding on the success of the Hangzhou Asian Games, Indian tennis star Rutuja Bhosale is now aiming to secure a 2024 Paris Olympics quota and break into the top 200 to ensure more Grand Slam appearances, with unwavering support from the Punit Balan Group (PBG), which has been a constant pillar of help in her journey of excellence for the last two years.

Rutuja was felicitated by Punit Balan Group (PBG) Chairman, Punit Balan, in the presence of Janhavi Dhariwal Balan, former captain of the Maharashtra Ranji cricket team, Rutuja's husband Swapnil Gugale, and her mother.

Speaking at the felicitation function, Rutuja shared her resolve and determination as she spoke on the sidelines of the felicitation ceremony.

"I have trained my eyes on the Paris Olympics. In tennis, one cannot secure an Olympic quota despite winning at the Asian Games like in other sports. I have to improve my ranking and move up from 320 to the top 200 to ensure a berth and secure entry into Grand Slams," Rutuja commented.

Speaking on the occasion, Punit Balan said, "Rutuja is a role model for many young aspiring athletes in the country. PBG as a group is committed to supporting talented sportspersons like Rutuja and providing them with the necessary financial assistance. I am certain Rutuja will continue her hard work and quest for competing at the Olympics and ensuring Grand Slam appearances."

Bhosale has made significant progress in her world ranking with assistance from PBG, resulting in a career-high ranking of 313 in singles. She has also clinched seven ITF titles in the last two years, including six in the doubles category.

While the financial assistance made her more relaxed and helped her focus on her game rather than worrying about a shortage of funds and various other challenges, Rutuja thanked PBG for their constant support and encouragement.

"It was a proud moment for me and Rohan (Bopanna) to represent India and win an Asian Games gold medal in mixed doubles after 13 long years. I am thankful for all the help and support that has gone into making us stand on the podium," Rutuja added.

Punit Balan owns eight sports teams across various sports leagues, including Tennis, Handball, Table Tennis, Kho Kho, Badminton, Cricket, Arm Wrestling, and Chess, besides providing financial support to close to 50 aspiring athletes across the country in multiple sporting disciplines.