Aairah: From Lucknow Courts to Olympic Dreams

Aairah's story transcends tennis scores and trophies—it's the inspiring journey of a quiet teenager fueled by unyielding determination. Off the court, she appears as any typical schoolgirl, but racket in hand, her demeanor shifts dramatically: high service toss, gaze piercing across the net, mind laser-focused on claiming the next point.

Humble Beginnings

From Lucknow's State Property Colony, Aairah climbed to conquer Uttar Pradesh's premier courts.

Starting tennis at age six, she never imagined dominating the UP State Tennis Championship center court with gold in women's singles and doubles, earning a roaring standing ovation. Her "double crown" triumph marks her seamless shift from juniors to the women's open arena.

Family Backbone

Her parents—senior journalist Anurag Shukla and Tanveer Fatima—provide steadfast, low-key support. Juggling newsroom demands, they orchestrate her match schedules, studies, and travel, offering solace in defeat and humility in victory.

Rigorous Routine

At La Martiniere Girls' College in Lucknow, this Class 10 student logs six hours of daily practice around school. Friends see sacrifice; she sees identity-building through fitness drills, service reps, and match simulations over typical class or holiday rhythms. While peers scroll phones, Aairah pores over tournament draws and rankings; she sharpens skills at Kesari Tennis Academy under ex-national player and global coach Samit Kesari.

 Global Achievements

Her path spans ITF and Asian circuits beyond local bounds.[2] Boasting 70+ state/national titles, 15 All India AITA singles/doubles wins, state triple gold, national soft tennis silver, top 300 in India's women's open, top 200 under-18, and UP top 20 consistency—milestones she logs quietly.

 Leadership Role

State captaincy demands maturity, which Aairah displays early. Leading the UP-Uttarakhand juniors at the 2024 CISCE National School Games in Kolkata, she carries team aspirations alongside her own, mentoring juniors into seeing her as a role model.

Ultimate Ambition

Aairah eyes Olympic gold for India in women's singles. Grand Slam views of Paula Badosa, Serena, or Sabalenka spark visions she converts to practice intensity. Lucknow's determined talent, rising from local courts to global stages, promises to headline India's tennis future.