Australian Open 2024: Sumit Nagal vs Shang Juncheng preview, head-to-head, prediction, live streaming

Published at :January 18, 2024 at 2:33 AM

Modified at :January 18, 2024 at 5:26 PM

(Courtesy : Outlook India/CNN)

Nagal has made it to the second round of tennis major for the first time since 2021.

The Grand Slams are the pinnacle of the tennis world, and the Australian Open 2024, as the season’s first major, sets the tone for the year. This year, India’s representation in the singles category is being carried by Sumit Nagal, the country’s highest-ranked singles player.

Nagal has qualified for the main draw of the Australian Open 2024. This marks only the second time he has achieved this feat and the first time since 2021. Nagal will face Shang Juncheng of China in the second round on 18th January (Thursday) on Court 6 in Melbourne Park, Victoria. He grabbed an upset win over world ranked 31 Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan in straight sets (6-4,6-2,7-6) and created history as he became the only Indian singles player after Ramesh Krishnan in 1989 to defeat a seeded player at Grand Slams.

Shang, currently ranked 142 on the ATP, presents a formidable challenge for Nagal, who is ranked at world no. 137. The 18-year-old Chinese also bagged an upset win over WR-42 American Mcdonald in a marathon match of five sets.

Sumit Nagal vs Shang Juncheng Preview

Sumit Nagal has shown remarkable resilience and determination. After defeating Geoffrey Blancaneaux, Edward Winter, and Alex Molcan and Bublik in straight sets, he secured his place in the second round of the Australian Open. In the first round, he grabbed the second biggest win of his career so far by beating WR 31 Bublik in straight sets. Nagal’s aggressive playstyle, as evidenced by his 29 winners against Bublik, could pose a significant challenge for Shang.

Shang Juncheng, who recently reached the semifinals in Hongkong open, has had a promising start to 2024 with a 3-1 win-loss record. His overall career record stands at 8-12, with a positive record on hard courts. Despite a recent loss to Rublev, Shang’s performance in Hongkong Open demonstrated his potential to compete at the highest level, where he defeated players like Frances Tiafoe, Botic van de Zandschulp and Laslo Djere.

Head-to-head records

Matches — 0

Sumit Nagal — 0

Shang Juncheng — 0

This will be the first-ever meeting between these two players.

Where and how to watch live streaming and telecast of Sumit Nagal vs Shang Juncheng, Australian Open 2024, second round match in India?

Sumit Nagal will take on Shang Juncheng from 8:50 AM IST (Subject to change when the Prior match ends). Sony Sports Network holds the broadcast rights for the Australian Open matches in India. Sony LIV will offer live streaming for the Sumit Nagal vs Shang Juncheng clash on both the app and website, via subscription.

Indian Sports Live Coverage on Khel Now

Prediction

Based on the statistics and recent performances, the upcoming match between Shang Juncheng and Sumit Nagal at the Australian Open 2024 promises to be an thrilling encounter.

Shang, despite being 142 ranked, has had a good run on the ATP Tour, with three wins in his last four matches. His consistency at biggest stage could be a potential point that Nagal might want to exploit.

On the other hand, Nagal has shown resilience and determination. After overcoming financial hurdles, he has managed to qualify for a major tournament for the first time in three years. His recent form, with seven victories in the last 10 matches, indicates a player on the rise.

Given Shang’s consistent run and Nagal’s upward trajectory, there is a possibility for a thrilling match and any player can win out of both. If Nagal can maintain his recent form, he might just secure a victory and advance to the third round of the Australian Open for the first time in his career.

Result: Sumit Nagal to win five sets.

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