The Australian Open 2024, the first Grand Slam of the year, began on January 14 in Melbourne with the first-round matches. Sumit Nagal, India’s highest-ranked player at World No. 137, was the only representative in both singles categories. The All India Tennis Association (AITA) did not nominate him for a wildcard, so he had to participate in the qualifying rounds before the tournament began.
Nagal successfully navigated all three qualifying matches, not dropping a set, and subsequently secured a spot in the first round. He faced the 31st seed, Alexander Bublik, and made history on Tuesday, January 16, by becoming the first Indian men’s singles player in 35 years to defeat a seeded player in a Grand Slam. Nagal triumphed over Bublik with a scoreline of 6-4, 6-2, 7-6 (5) 123.
This is a remarkable achievement for Nagal, who has been working hard to improve his game and climb up the rankings. His victory over Bublik is a testament to his skill and determination. We wish him the best of luck in the rest of the tournament!
Also Read: Sumit Nagal | Take a Bow! History Made At Australian Open 2024
Who is Sumit Nagal playing next at the Australian Open?
Sumit Nagal’s victory in the first round of the Australian Open has propelled him into the second round, where he is set to face China’s Shang Juncheng. Shang, who advanced to the first round through a wildcard, secured his place by defeating American Mark McDonald in a thrilling five-set match with a scoreline of 6-3, 1-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-2 1.
Shang, at just 18 years old, is ranked three places below Nagal at 140. He gained attention during the 2023 Australian Open by defeating Fábián Marozsán, Fernando Verdasco, and Zsombor Piros, becoming the youngest men’s Grand Slam qualifier since Carlos Alcaraz at the 2021 Australian Open. Hailing from a sporting background, being the son of a former footballer and table tennis player, Shang is considered a promising talent and is expected to provide a formidable challenge for Nagal.
Broadcasting Rights for Sumit Nagal’s Matches in Australian Open 2024
For Indian viewers interested in watching Sumit Nagal’s matches in the Australian Open, the broadcasting rights have been secured by the Sony Sports Network. The matches can be enjoyed on television or streamed live on the Sony Liv app/website. Nagal’s upcoming second-round match is scheduled for Tuesday.
We wish both players the best of luck for their upcoming match.
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