'I think it is paying off…' - Sumit Nagal reflects on his struggles and stunning win in opening round of Australian Open 2024

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

Modified at :January 17, 2024 at 3:48 AM

(Courtesy : The Indian Express)

India’s top-ranked player also revealed his gameplan against Alexander Bublik.

Earlier today, Sumit Nagal roared in glory when the Indian tennis sensation won the first round of the Australian Open 2024 and became the first Indian male player since Ramesh Krishnan in 1989 to beat a seeded player at a Grand Slam. After achieving this historic feat, he sat down for a post-match interview with Sony Sports Network, the official broadcaster for the tournament in India, explaining his injury struggles, game strategy, and preparations for the upcoming game.

Discussing his struggles with injury in the past few months and how that helped him, Sumit explained, “The last 12-18 months had been both good and bad. Bad due to my injury, and good because I learned a lot during my break. When I returned to the court after the injury, it made me a better and more mature player. I felt and understood tennis much better, and I think that is paying off on the courts.”

Later, Sumit went on to explain his mindset when he saw Alexander Bublik talking a lot to himself and his box between 1st and 2nd serves, “When I saw him doing that, I knew I have to be there and just give him another ball. Serve a lot of first serves, and not give him chances too many times, and I think that worked well for me. Make him move a lot and get him more and more annoyed.”

Indian Sports Live Coverage on Khel Now

After defeating the World Ranked No 27 player in straight sets and achieving the unthinkable, Sumit concluded with his preparation strategy for the upcoming game, saying, “The plan for tomorrow is to take it easy, do ice bath, get some massage, get some extra hours in sleep. That’s a very typical day-off routine for me.”

Can Sumit Nagal create history and enter the 3rd round? Watch Sumit Nagal against J.C. Shang in the 2nd round of the Australian Open on January 18th, live only on Sony Sports Network. Sony Sports Network will bring all the LIVE action from the tournament in English and Hindi, while Tamil and Telugu language feeds will be added from the Quarterfinals stage onwards.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram