Small-town girl from India wins major title at Australian Open

Exclusive: Jensi Kanabar from Junagadh, Gujarat, India, has won the Australian Open 2026 Asia-Pacific Elite Under-14 Championship at Melbourne Park, defeating Australia’s Musemma Cilek 3–6, 6–4, 6–1. Jensi and her father, Dipak Kanabar, visited SBS Studios in Melbourne shortly after her victory.

Indian tennis player Jensi Kanabar (L) with her father Dipak Kanabar (R) after winning the Australian Open U-14 Elite Asia Pacific Championship in Melbourne. Credit: Vatsal Patel.

Thirteen-year-old Jensi Kanabar from Junagadh in Gujarat, India, has made history by winning the Australian Open 2026 Asia-Pacific Elite Under-14 tournament.

Jensi defeated local player Musemma Cilek in the final after losing the first set. She secured the title with a comeback victory, finishing the match 3–6, 6–4, 6–1.

Speaking to SBS Gujarati after lifting the trophy, Jensi said she felt nervous after dropping the opening set but stayed focused on her game plan, which helped her turn the match around.

Tennis player Jensi Kanabar (R) pose with the trophy with her father, Dipak Kanabar (L). Credit: Vatsal Patel

Her father and coach, Dipak Kanabar, said he was extremely proud of her performance on the international stage. He said Jensi has not only made her local community proud but has also brought pride to India with her fearless approach to the game.

Built tennis courts for training

To support her development, Dipak, with help from friends, built tennis courts near their home. He said that although courts are available in their town, he built dedicated courts on rented land to ensure Jensi could practise without interruptions.

A Year 8 student, Jensi trains for around seven hours a day, including fitness work, gym sessions, and on-court practice.

No time for celebration

Despite the major win, Dipak said there would be little time to celebrate. He noted that preparations for upcoming tournaments would begin immediately after they reach India.

“As soon as we return to India, Jensi will resume training and start preparing for Wimbledon, which will be played in July this year,” Dipak added.

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