All our scheduling is going to revolve around peaking for the Asian Games: Ramit Tandon Premium

Ramit Tandon discusses his preparation for the Asian Games, Indian squash's growth, and ambitions for Olympic qualification.

After a frustrating build-up to the 2022 Asian Games that ultimately cost him a place in the Indian team, Ramit Tandon has quietly rebuilt his rhythm and belief. Now ranked World No. 37 and coming off a strong start to the season, the 34-year-old is looking ahead with renewed clarity — targeting a return to the Asian Games stage and a deeper push on the PSA Tour.

On the eve of the JSW Indian Open in Mumbai, where he is seeded third, Tandon spoke to The Hindu about form, fitness, the evolving Indian squash landscape, and the road to a crucial year for the sport. Excerpts:

Your best result playing at home was reaching the semifinals at the CCI International, a PSA World Tour silver event, in 2019. Going into the the JSW Indian Open, how are you feeling?

It’s always wonderful playing at home. The issue is we don’t get to do it as frequently, but obviously with squash making it to the [2028 Los Angeles] Olympics, we are seeing a big boost. A couple of months ago, there was a massive event in Indore as well, at Daly College. Last year, the JSW Indian Open was the first glasscourt event after a gap of a few years. I think post COVID, Indore tournament was the first time they (organisers) hosted an event. And now it’s a yearly affair. It’s always a good feeling to play in front of people who have supported you through your career, those familiar faces and of course, the home support. It’s hard to beat that.

Ramit Tandon. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

At the Indian Open, you will be the third seed, behind Abhay Singh (second) and Egypt’s Yahya Elnawasany. What are your expectations?