Indian women’s global success has made a huge change in societal, parental attitudes: Sania Mirza

Societal and parental attitudes in India towards its women in sports have drastically changed for good over the years, with them winning World Cups, Olympic medals and making headlines globally, said Sania Mirza, former professional tennis player.

“When I started playing, over 20 years ago, girls taking up sports professionally was often seen as a joke,’’ the tennis star said at Bengaluru Tech Summit on Thursday, reflecting on the transformation of women in sports in the country. “Once overlooked and dismissed, female athletes are now celebrated nationwide. Parents today want their daughters to emulate athletes like Richa Ghosh, Harmanpreet, and me,’’ she added.

Participating in the conversation, cricketer Richa Ghosh, part of the under-19 World Cup victory and Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Women’s Premier League (WPL) player, shared her journey from Siliguri, where opportunities for girls in cricket weren’t there.

“I had to train with boys because there wasn’t any girls’ team. It was tough, but it helped me grow. After winning the World Cup, I see more girls coming to the grounds to practice, and parents are encouraging their daughters to take up sports as a profession.”

Social media’s impact

On handling pressures involved in professional sports, Sania said the ability to thrive under pressure came from preparation, mental focus, and viewing challenges as learning opportunities, adding, criticism on social media should not distract athletes from their goals. 

“Focus on your goals and not on random opinions flying online,’’ she urged young women in sports.

Tech in sports

Commenting on technology and AI in sports, they said, innovation has been playing a key role in elevating performances.

Advancements in recovery, training, and monitoring that have transformed the game of tennis, said Ms. Mirza, while Ms. Ghosh said data analytics, workload management, and modern equipment enhanced cricket performances. “However, AI can’t replace talent, hard work, and commitment,” emphasised Ms. Mirza.

“Good days and bad days will be there in the spotlight, but commitment and love for the sport will carry you through and give you success,” was Sania’s advice to the young women in India and girls who are planning to enter sports.