Pokhara Sports /Fourteen-year-old tennis sensation Shivali Gurung was given a grand farewell ahead of her departure to Australia, marking a historic milestone as she prepares to compete at the elite trophy Grand Slam–level stage, becoming the first-ever Nepali tennis player to reach this level.
Speaking at a farewell program held in Kathmandu, Shivali expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported her journey. “I sincerely thank all those who have supported me for my Australia tour. This has been possible because of your guidance, support, inspiration, and discipline,” she said. “My focus is now on Australia, where I will step onto the court carrying my country’s flag on my shoulders. This journey will continue.”
Shivali is not just a tennis player; she embodies one of the most important qualities required of an athlete—discipline. Her dedication, relentless hard work, and deep passion for tennis are truly admirable. Having begun her ITF journey at the young age of 13, Shivali has gone on to secure victory after victory, successfully drawing the attention of analysts as well. Not only at the Australian Open Elite Trophy, but in the coming years, her name is set to ignite fresh excitement among stadium crowds on the international tennis stage.
Shivali has enjoyed a remarkable run in recent competitions. She emerged as the champion of the J30 Circuit 1 & 2, claiming titles in both singles and doubles, underlining her dominance at the junior international level. Adding to her growing list of achievements, she also lifted the women’s singles title at the 22nd Machhapuchhre Pokhara Open Tennis Tournament, held on 30th December 2025 in Pokhara.
Her consistent performances, technical maturity, and competitive mindset at such a young age have positioned her as one of Nepal’s most promising tennis prospects. Officials believe her exposure in Australia will provide high-level competition and professional training opportunities crucial for her long-term development.
Shivali’s journey is being widely viewed as a landmark moment for Nepali tennis, particularly for junior and women’s tennis development. Her success continues to inspire young athletes across the country, demonstrating that with dedication and the right support, Nepali players can compete on the world’s biggest stages.
The tournament will be held in Melbourne, Australia, from January 28 to 30. Ranked fourth in Asia in the U-14 age group, Shivali is scheduled to depart for Malaysia on Sunday ahead of Australia as part of her preparation for the competition.
Shivali was officially sent off on Friday at a program held at the National Sports Council (NSC) in Tripureshwar by Minister for Youth and Sports Bablu Gupta and NSC Member-Secretary Ramcharitra Mehta.
