Yashaswini Ghorpade, a rising star in Indian table tennis, is a study in contrasts. Off the court, she’s a soft-spoken, shy introvert. But on the table, she transforms into a fierce competitor, showcasing a powerful backhand and decisive forehand drives. Her recent victory in the Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) 2024 final, where she bested experienced players Mouma Das and Sutirtha Mukherjee, solidified her growing reputation as a force to be reckoned with.
Her journey to the top is a testament to her dedication and resilience. Just a few years ago, she was a shy, inactive child who used to watch a lot of TV and often fell sick. Her parents, seeking to improve her health, enrolled her in table tennis classes at her school. Little did they know, they were sparking a passion that would change her life.
Yashaswini quickly proved to be a natural talent. She rose through the ranks, winning titles at the U-19 level in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. In 2023, she made the leap to the senior level, and the transition has been remarkable. She has already garnered impressive results, including runner-up titles at WTT Contender events in Tunis and Lagos, and a quarterfinal appearance in the Saudi Smash.
Despite her successes, Yashaswini remains grounded. She credits her recent achievements to the support of her senior teammates and the valuable lessons she’s learned from them. She’s also quick to acknowledge the challenges of the sport, noting the intense competition and the need for constant improvement.
“It’s just been 8 months transitioning, so it’s been quite amazing I would say,” she said, reflecting on her journey. “Travelling with the Indian national team players on the WTT circuit has been great. The practice and those points and tips you get from senior players help a lot.”
Looking ahead, Yashaswini has ambitious goals. She’s currently ranked 87th in the world and has set her sights on breaking into the top 50. Her immediate focus is on the China Smash, where she hopes to qualify for the main draw. With her talent, determination, and the support of her team, it’s only a matter of time before Yashaswini Ghorpade becomes a household name in the world of table tennis. Her story is an inspiration, reminding us that even the shyest of individuals can achieve greatness with dedication and hard work.
