Bengaluru: Rising tennis star Dhanush SM is making a mark on the national circuit not just for his performances, but also for his strong commitment to fair play and sportsmanship.
The 12-year-old from Bengaluru has been earning praise from coaches, parents and fellow players alike for his honesty on the court—an uncommon trait in competitive junior tennis.
Known for fairness and discipline
Coach Suraj Bikkannavar describes Dhanush as a player who stands out for his integrity.
“He is one of the players who is known for being a very good sport on the court. Everybody appreciates his fairness,” Bikkannavar said.
He added that while disputes and incorrect calls are common in age-group tournaments, Dhanush consistently chooses honesty over advantage.
Early training and strong foundation
Dhanush has been training at the Sol Sports Tennis Academy since the age of four, developing both his technical skills and mental approach to the game.
His father, Manjunath SM, and mother Kavitha, a primary school teacher, have played a key role in shaping his grounded personality. The family hails from Sankapura in Madhugiri taluk of Tumakuru.
Rapid rise in national rankings
The young right-hander is currently ranked No. 3 in the boys’ under-12 category by the All India Tennis Association.
His consistent performances over the past year have seen him collect multiple titles across the country, including national-level tournaments.
Impressive list of achievements
Dhanush’s breakthrough came with his first National Series U-12 doubles title in Mumbai in May last year. Since then, he has added:
- Multiple doubles titles in Mumbai and Hyderabad
- Singles titles in Hyderabad and Nanded
- A standout performance in Bengaluru (December 2025), where he won both singles and doubles
- U-12 National doubles champion (March 2026), with a semifinal finish in singles
He also finished runner-up in a U-12 singles event in Belagavi this year.
Eye on international stage
Dhanush is now likely to represent India at the upcoming ITF Asia 12 & Under Team Competition – South Asia Regional Qualifying event in Kathmandu from April 11 to 18.
Inspired by Novak Djokovic
The youngster looks up to Novak Djokovic, drawing inspiration from the 24-time Grand Slam champion’s conduct both on and off the court.
“Even if I lose, I never want to give easy points. The opponent has to earn them,” Dhanush said, reflecting a maturity beyond his years.
Conclusion
With a blend of skill, determination and exemplary sportsmanship, Dhanush SM represents a refreshing presence in Indian tennis. As he continues to rise through the ranks, his commitment to playing hard yet fair sets him apart as a promising talent for the future.