Rashmikaa Bhamidipaty wins maiden ITF title in thrilling final against Zeel Desai

Published at :November 26, 2023 at 9:10 PM

Modified at :January 14, 2024 at 1:17 AM

(Courtesy : Deepthi Indukuri/KSLTA)

Apart from winning a prize money, Rashmikaa also earned 50 WTA points.

Shrivalli Rashmikaa Bhamidipaty transitioned from being a national champion to an international champion when she secured her first ITF title at the Bowring Institute ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour, defeating Zeel Desai. In an electrifying final witnessed by a packed crowd at the Bowring Institute courts last Sunday, Rashmikaa Bhamidipaty surrendered a set before prevailing as a 6-0, 4-6, 6-3 victor.

Rashmikaa claimed the winner’s prize of US $3,935 but, more significantly, earned 50 WTA points that could propel her up the WTA rankings. Zeel received US $2,107 and 30 WTA points for finishing as the runner-up.

“It still hasn’t sunk in. Perhaps it will be evening,” remarked the champion. “I knew Zeel was a formidable opponent, and I was prepared for a three-set match. After losing the second set, I thought the trophy was slipping away. However, I pushed myself, gave my all, and managed to clinch the trophy,” Rashmikaa said.

Rashmikaa capitalized on Zeel’s errors to secure an early break in the second game, setting the tone for the remainder of the match. The 21-year-old held her serve in the third game after several deuces, thwarting any attempts at a comeback from her opponent. She claimed the set 6-0 without conceding any opportunity.

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However, Zeel, who had staged an impressive comeback in the semifinals, displayed similar resilience. She broke her opponent’s serve in the opening game but was subsequently broken back in the fourth game. The lead oscillated, with Rashmikaa leading 3-2 after the fifth game. Zeel rallied, winning three consecutive games to take a 5-3 lead before securing the set 6-4.

The windy conditions, especially during serves, posed a challenge, particularly for Zeel, who struggled to control the ball and found herself trailing 0-3. Rashmikaa utilized her powerful forehand effectively, executing brilliant cross-court shots that Zeel couldn’t counter.

Results

Women’s Singles (Final)

Shrivalli Rashmikaa Bhamidipaty defeated Zeel Desai 6-0, 4-6, 6-3

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