Indian WTA professional Kashish Bhatia has spoken publicly about a benign pituitary tumor diagnosed more than a year ago and the simultaneous stroke suffered by her father. The 23-year-old said the health issues nearly ended her career.
In an interview with Indian Tennis Daily, Bhatia described the medical advice that restricted her to no physical activity for six months. She gained 12 kilos during that period and came close to quitting tennis.
“The tumor is still there. I’m still on medications, and the journey is far from over,” Bhatia said. The diagnosis occurred around the same time her father suffered a paralytic stroke.
Bhatia has a 33-34 win-loss record overall and reached her first ITF quarterfinal in Nagpur this year. She continues treatment while competing at the ITF level.