Anna 
Kankanala Sports Group (KSG), a rapidly growing sports conglomerate known for its ventures into multiple sports, is making a significant foray into the tennis world. Today, the group announced a groundbreaking 10-year partnership with 8-year-old German tennis sensation, Aria Lancrescent, a rising star in the sport.
KSG, the parent organization behind INDE Racing and the Hyderabad Blackhawks, has been on an aggressive expansion trajectory, diversifying its portfolio across various sports. The decision to enter tennis has been widely anticipated given the sport’s immense popularity in India, where Grand Slam events consistently draw viewership comparable to high-profile leagues like the IPL and the Champions League finals.
“Tennis is one of the most followed sports in India. The Grand Slams have a viewership that rivals major events, showcasing the sport’s massive appeal. It was only a matter of when, and with whom, we would make our debut,” explained Abhishek Reddy Kankanala, the principal of KSG.
After a six-month evaluation process, involving feedback from renowned coaches across Germany, Hungary, and the United States, KSG chose Aria Lancrescent from a competitive pool of eight elite contenders. The decision was based on her exceptional talent, with Kankanala describing her as “a once-in-a-generation player.”
“We saw something unique in Aria from the moment we first saw her play. Her potential is extraordinary for someone so young,” Kankanala remarked.
Aria’s growing list of sponsors includes several notable European and US-based brands. She is currently endorsed by the prestigious British health and wellness brand, David Lloyd Clubs, which has a strong tradition of supporting top athletes, including Olympians from Germany.
“Aria is part of David Lloyd’s wider sponsorship program, which includes a number of national and international athletes, including active Olympians,” a spokesperson for the club confirmed.
Aria’s tennis journey began at the age of three, and since she was five, she has followed an intensive training regimen of 20 hours per week, six of which are spent on the court. A member of TC Bad Homburg, home to the prestigious Bad Homburg Open, Aria is already on the fast track to success, with her eyes firmly set on her ultimate goal: Wimbledon.
“Back in kindergarten, while other kids were drawing flowers and butterflies, I drew the Wimbledon logo. I still have that drawing—it’s on my wall. That’s my goal,” Aria shared.
Under the new agreement, KSG will support Aria’s tennis development until she turns 18 in 2034, helping her reach her full potential.
“We are incredibly excited about the future and are committed to supporting Aria at every step of her journey,” concluded Kankanala.
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