Applying User-Centred Design to Enhance Career Pathways for Young Indian Lawn Tennis Players: Developing the LTCD Platform to Connect Players with Sponsors

Abstract

This master’s thesis by Juveria Fatima explores how a user-centred design approach and Design management tools can be used to create better opportunities for young Indian tennis players. India has produced many talented tennis players; however, many athletes from underdeveloped areas face severe challenges, not due to a lack of skill, but because of limited coaching, facilities, financial aid, and support (The Economic Times, 2017; The Bridge, 2020). Despite the growing global interest in tennis, only a small fraction of people from rural India can reach a professional level (Special Area Games Scheme, 2024; Times of India, 2021).

The research uses the User-Centred Design (UCD) approach and the Double Diamond framework (Design Council, 2019) to understand these challenges through secondary data and case studies. Findings show that players face numerous issues, including inadequate coaching, insufficient medical and nutritional support, societal gender expectations, and a lack of backing from both their families and governmental authorities (Himal Southasian, 2024). These hurdles often lead young athletes, especially those from low socio-economic backgrounds, to give up tennis early.

To address these issues, the project introduces a digital platform called Lawn Tennis Career Development (LTCD), which connects top-performing players with companies, sponsors, mentors, and training programs. This community-oriented solution would give players access to coaching, mental health support, financial assistance, career guidance, and more, and also shows how intentional and inclusive design can be used to create new opportunities for young athletes, both in India and in under-resourced countries worldwide.