Ramanathan Krishnan: The Pioneer of Indian Tennis
- Khelandaaz
- Jan 11
- 6 min read
Updated: Jan 13
Tennis in India owes much of its early prominence to the grace and brilliance of Ramanathan Krishnan. Known for his stylish strokes and gentlemanly demeanour, Krishnan remains synonymous with excellence in Indian tennis history.
A player who captured the nation's imagination during a time when global recognition for Indian athletes was scarce, he paved the way for future generations with his skill and resilience.
A Gentle Giant of Indian Tennis
Born on April 11, 1937, in the small temple town of Nagercoil, Ramanathan Krishnan was not just an exceptional talent but also a beacon of discipline. Groomed by his father, T.K. Ramanathan, a tennis enthusiast, Krishnan’s journey into the sport was guided by both passion and precision.
His early training on rough Indian courts instilled a rugged determination, yet his playing style radiated finesse.
Krishnan’s game was a study of control and artistry. In an era dominated by serve-and-volley powerhouses, his focus on groundstrokes and clever placement set him apart.
His forehand and backhand slices were not just defensive shots; they were tactical weapons that frustrated opponents and delighted spectators.
Rise to Stardom: The Wimbledon Semi-Finalist
Ramanathan Krishnan’s remarkable journey to the semi-finals of Wimbledon in 1960 and 1961 was a defining chapter in his career and a moment of pride for Indian sports. Wimbledon, the pinnacle of tennis, has always been a stage where legends are made, and for Krishnan, it became the venue that showcased his exceptional talent to the world.
In 1960, Krishnan’s performance on the grass courts was nothing short of masterful. Displaying extraordinary control, precise shot-making, and a calm temperament, he navigated through the draw with impressive victories over higher-ranked players.
His fourth-round win against Luis Ayala, a well-regarded Chilean player, highlighted his ability to counter power with strategic placement.
By the time he reached the quarter-finals, his performance had become the talk of the tennis fraternity. His eventual victory against the formidable Australian, Neale Fraser, a player known for his aggressive serve-and-volley game, was a testament to Krishnan’s ability to adapt and thrive under pressure.
The semi-final against Neale Fraser, however, was a battle of contrasting styles. While Fraser relied on his booming serves and volleys, Krishnan responded with his trademark groundstrokes and finesse.
Although the match ended in Fraser’s favour, Krishnan’s graceful exits were celebrated as victories for artistry over brute force. His achievement put him in the spotlight, earning him admiration from both fans and critics worldwide.
A year later, in 1961, Krishnan proved his consistency by making another semi-final appearance at Wimbledon.
This time, his path to the last four included a string of dominant performances against seasoned opponents, reinforcing his position among the elite players of the era.
His victory over Roy Emerson in the quarter-finals was a particular highlight. Emerson, who would go on to become one of the greatest players in tennis history, struggled against Krishnan’s composed and tactical play.
The semi-final of 1961 saw Krishnan face Rod Laver, a legend in the making. Laver’s relentless pace and precision were a challenge for anyone, yet Krishnan held his own for significant portions of the match.
While Laver eventually triumphed, Krishnan’s performance was lauded for its elegance and the competitive spirit he displayed.
These two semi-final appearances at Wimbledon were more than just milestones in his career; they symbolised a new era for Indian tennis.
At a time when international success for Indian athletes was rare, Krishnan’s achievements resonated deeply with a nation seeking sporting heroes. His performances inspired not only aspiring tennis players but also a broader audience who saw in him the potential of Indian talent on the world stage.
What made these Wimbledon runs particularly significant was their timing. Tennis in India was still in its infancy, with limited infrastructure and support systems compared to those in countries like the United States or Australia.
Krishnan’s success was a result of immense personal effort and determination, qualities that endeared him to fans both in India and abroad. It wasn’t just his wins but the manner in which he played, graceful, composed, and strategic, that left a lasting impression. Wimbledon recognised him as not just a competitor but as an artist of the game, a label few players ever earn.
Krishnan’s semi-final achievements remain etched in the history of Indian tennis as moments of pure brilliance, reflective of his capability to shine among the best without losing his distinct style and approach. Wimbledon became not just a tournament for him but a stage where he carved a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
The Davis Cup Warrior
Ramanathan Krishnan’s role in India’s Davis Cup campaigns stands out as a testament to his commitment and skill. In a career that saw him shine on some of the world’s biggest stages, his performances in the Davis Cup were particularly significant, showcasing not just his technical prowess but also his ability to handle the immense pressure of representing his country.
Krishnan debuted in the Davis Cup as a teenager in the 1950s, quickly establishing himself as a reliable and formidable player.
During an era when tennis was still finding its footing in India, his calm demeanour and strategic brilliance became assets for the Indian team. Over the years, Krishnan played numerous singles and doubles matches, often against some of the toughest opponents in the world, and came out victorious in crucial ties.
The 1966 Davis Cup campaign remains one of the most celebrated chapters in Indian tennis history. Krishnan, along with stalwarts like Jaidip Mukerjea, piloted India to the final, a feat that was unprecedented for the nation at the time.
In the run-up to the final, Krishnan's consistent performances in singles were instrumental in India's success. He defeated top players from Germany and Brazil, displaying a level of composure and tactical intelligence that made him a formidable opponent.
The doubles matches during this campaign also highlighted his versatility. Partnering with Jaidip Mukerjea, Krishnan formed a team that was both tactically astute and highly adaptable. Their chemistry on the court allowed them to win critical matches, adding vital points to India’s tally. The duo’s ability to complement each other’s styles often left opponents scrambling for answers.'
India eventually faced Australia in the 1966 Davis Cup final, a clash that underlined the steep challenges Indian players faced during that period. Although India was defeated by a stronger Australian side led by legends such as Roy Emerson and Fred Stolle, the campaign was seen as a moral victory for Indian tennis. For a country with limited resources and infrastructure for the sport, reaching the final was nothing short of remarkable.
Krishnan’s performances in the Davis Cup extended beyond individual brilliance. He was a team player in every sense, providing mentorship to younger players and instilling confidence in the squad. His ability to anchor the team and lead by example was crucial in ensuring that India remained competitive against much better-equipped nations.
Even in matches where India didn’t prevail, Krishnan’s sportsmanship and fighting spirit left a lasting impression.
Opponents admired his calmness under pressure, while teammates were inspired by his determination. He never seemed overwhelmed by the responsibility of carrying the team on his shoulders, and his approach to the game reflected a maturity and resilience that defined his career.
Ramanathan Krishnan’s importance in Indian tennis extends beyond his individual achievements. His story represents the transformative power of sport in shaping national identity and breaking cultural barriers. At a time when India was still establishing itself as an independent nation on the global stage, Krishnan’s success brought a sense of pride and recognition that transcended tennis courts.
Krishnan’s impact lies in his ability to inspire a generation of players to dream big, despite limited resources and infrastructure. His success at tournaments like Wimbledon showed Indian athletes that the global stage was not out of reach.
Every time he walked onto the court, he carried the aspirations of a nation with him, proving that Indian talent could compete and excel among the best in the world.
His approach to the game focused on strategy, finesse, and precision, continues to resonate in an era of power-driven tennis. Krishnan exemplified that there is room for elegance and intelligence in sports, offering a timeless lesson to players and fans alike. His legacy reminds us that tennis is as much about artistry as it is about physical prowess.
Furthermore, Krishnan’s conduct on and off the court remains a benchmark for professionalism and grace. His career is a testament to the idea that success can be achieved without compromising on humility or integrity. In a world increasingly dominated by commercialism in sports, his journey offers a refreshing perspective on the values of perseverance, dedication, and simplicity.
Even today, when young Indian players like Rohan Bopanna or Sania Mirza achieve success, the pathways laid down by pioneers like Krishnan come to mind.
The infrastructure, visibility, and interest in Indian tennis owe much to the efforts of those who came before, and Krishnan’s name is indelibly etched in that history. His story continues to be a source of pride, a reminder of what Indian athletes can achieve on the world stage.
References
Bhasin, A. (2015). The History of Indian Tennis: From Origins to Present. New Delhi: Penguin Books.
Gill, R. (2010). "Ramanathan Krishnan: A Legacy of Elegance." Sports Illustrated India, 12(3), 34-36.
Tennis Archives. (n.d.). Wimbledon Records of Ramanathan Krishnan. Retrieved from https://www.tennisarchives.com
Sen, S. (2018). "Davis Cup: The Indian Trailblazers." The Hindu. Retrieved from https://www.thehindu.com
Ramaswamy, A. (2021). Icons of Indian Sport. Chennai: Orient Blackswan.
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