India is set to host four ATP Challenger Tour events for the third season in a row, albeit with significant changes in schedule, prize money and ranking points.
In 2025, the series began on February 3 in Chennai, where the total prize money was $160,000. It was followed by the ones in Delhi ($100,000; 75 ranking points for the champion), Pune ($160,000; 100 ranking points) and Bengaluru ($200,000; 125 ranking points) in successive weeks. Across the four Challenger events, Indian players managed to win just one out of 13 singles matches in the main draw.
As per the revised ATP calendar released on December 4, the 2026 season for the second tier of men’s tennis will open in Bengaluru on January 5. The event will offer 125 ranking points and more prize money ($225,000) this time.
However, the Chennai Challenger, scheduled to begin on February 9, will have a reduced prize pool of $63,000 (50 ranking points).
The Delhi Open, starting on February 16, will have a slightly increased prize pool ($107,000) and 75 ranking points while the Pune leg, beginning on February 23, will have a drop in prize money ($107,000) and 75 ranking points.
Sunder Iyer, hony. secy., Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association, explained the reason behind the reduced prize money for Chennai and Pune.
“In 2025, all four tournaments in India received significant monetary help from ATP. For the next season, they have selected a different country for it. They will still support us but the monetary assistance has been reduced,” said Sunder.
Published – December 10, 2025 02:20 am IST