Chandigarh’s top-ranked tennis player Neeraj Yashpaul 'denied' support by CLTA, father-coach alleges nepotism
Ajay Yashpaul Accuses CLTA of Sabotaging His Son’s Career, Calls for Government Intervention
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, March 15, 2025 – Chandigarh’s top-ranked men’s singles tennis player, Neeraj Yashpaul, has been reportedly denied support and a wild card entry by the Chandigarh Lawn Tennis Association (CLTA), sparking outrage in the tennis fraternity.
His father and coach, Ajay Yashpaul, has accused the association of nepotism and deliberate career sabotage, stating that “CLTA is out to crush my son’s career.”
Addressing a press conference, an emotional Ajay revealed that Neeraj’s repeated applications for a wild card entry into the ITF Men’s Tennis Tournament in Chandigarh had been ignored, despite him being the city’s No. 1-ranked player. He further alleged that CLTA had blocked Neeraj’s access to its training facilities, forcing him to train in substandard conditions or relocate for better coaching.
Denial of Support Despite Proven Track Record
Ajay pointed out that Neeraj, apart from being Chandigarh’s top player, had:
Achieved a career-high ranking of No. 15 in Indian men’s singles.
Won multiple AITA Men’s tournaments.
Secured a silver medal in the Khelo India University Games.
Won gold medals in inter-college and inter-university championships.
“Despite his achievements, Neeraj is being pushed aside while non-deserving players receive backing. Funds are not the issue at CLTA—the problem is that they are being misused to promote the wrong players,” alleged Ajay.
Forced to Leave Chandigarh for Training
Ajay shared that the lack of support from CLTA had forced them to move to Delhi for Neeraj’s training. “Even after returning, he is still denied a wild card and training facilities, which is his right as the city’s No.1 player,” he lamented.
He emphasized that tennis is an expensive sport requiring international travel, and the financial burden of Neeraj’s career has entirely fallen on their middle-class family. “I have funded my son’s career so far, but beyond a point, this is unsustainable,” he added.
Calls for Government Intervention & Sponsorship
Ajay Yashpaul has made two urgent appeals to the UT Administrator and Punjab Governor:
Cancel the Lease Between CLTA and the Sports Department – Ajay urged authorities to take over the CLTA premises to ensure fair player development and prevent misuse of funds.
Financial Sponsorship for Neeraj – He requested ₹50 lakh per year in sponsorship to help Neeraj train abroad and compete internationally, highlighting that lack of funding could end his career. “If This Neglect Continues, Neeraj May Have to Reconsider His Career”
Ajay warned that if CLTA’s indifference persists, Neeraj might be forced to give up on his tennis dreams.
“The level of subjugation my son has faced would have made any other player quit. It is only Neeraj’s strong will that is keeping him in the fight,” he concluded.
With no response from CLTA or the Chandigarh Sports Department, Ajay has appealed to corporate sponsors and sports enthusiasts to step in and support Neeraj before it is too late.