Tennis Star Saketh Myneni, 38, Eyes Grand Slam Comeback

At 38 years old, most professional athletes have long retired, but Indian tennis player Saketh Myneni is just getting started on his comeback journey. Currently ranked 344 in doubles, he's competing at the Chennai Open ATP Challenger with one clear goal: make it back to the Grand Slams.

"I love to compete. I love to play and tennis has always been part of it," Myneni told The Hindu. His words reflect a fire that hasn't dimmed despite the challenges of aging in a sport that typically favors youth.

The road hasn't been easy. Myneni played only four or five tournaments in 2025, sidelined by injuries that kept him away from the tour. But instead of calling it quits, he's focused on recovery and building back his competitive edge.

Partnering with compatriot Siddhant Banthia in Chennai, Myneni is taking a measured approach to his return. He previously teamed up with Ramkumar Ramanathan and found success, though he admits switching partners frequently presents its own challenges.

While he's stepped away from singles competition, doubles remains his passion. The decision comes from a place of wisdom rather than defeat, as Myneni carefully balances his competitive ambitions with physical reality.

Why This Inspires

Myneni's story reminds us that passion doesn't have an expiration date. In a culture obsessed with young prodigies and early success, his determination to keep competing shows that dedication and love for your craft can sustain you far beyond what others consider "retirement age."

His approach is refreshingly honest and grounded. He's not making grand promises or setting unrealistic timelines, just committing to showing up, staying healthy, and giving his best effort each day.

When asked what keeps him going, his answer was simple: passion for the sport. It's that pure love of the game that drives him through grueling training sessions, tough losses, and the physical demands of professional tennis.

Myneni's comeback journey isn't just about personal glory. It's about proving that age is just a number when you have the heart to keep pushing forward, inspiring younger players to think long-term about their careers.

As he focuses on staying injury-free and regaining his competitive form, tennis fans have something special to root for: a veteran player showing that dreams don't retire just because you get older.