Sania Mirza, Mahesh Bhupathi enter Indian Tennis body polls

26-Oct-2026

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Indian tennis legends Mahesh Bhupathi and Sania Mirza have nominated for the All India Tennis Association's Sports Person of Outstanding Merit elections ahead of November 7, aiming to enhance player representation in sports administration. 

Leander Paes, despite backing from the Bengal Tennis Association, is ineligible to contest the AITA presidency due to eligibility rules requiring prior state office-bearer experience. Alongside Bhupathi and Sania, six former players have also entered the fray, marking a push for greater athlete involvement under new governance reforms.