After 42 Years, Indian Player to Compete in Monte Carlo Masters: Sumit Nagal Secures Main Singles Draw, Faces Italian Today

After 42 years, India’s number-one tennis player Sumit Nagal has become the first Indian player to reach the main draw of the Rolex Monte Carlo Masters. Previously, in 1982, Ramesh Krishnan had secured his place in the singles event main draw.

Nagal Secures Spot in Tournament After Defeating Diaz in Qualifying Round

On Sunday, Sumit defeated Argentina’s 55th-ranked Facundo Diaz in a thrilling match with a score of 7-5, 2-6, 6-2 to seal his place in the tournament. Earlier on Saturday, he had defeated Italy’s 63rd-ranked Flavio Cobolli in the first qualifying round.

Nagal Clinches Victory After Comeback in First Set

Sumit trailed 2-5 in the first set but managed to come back and win it against Diaz. He then had to face defeat in the second set but bounced back to win the third set and secure the match victory.

Nagal Exits in Quarterfinals of the Tournament

Nagal faced defeat in the quarterfinals of the Mercedes Open on Wednesday. The Indian player was defeated by Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego with a score of 6-1, 3-6, 4-6. Nagal had made a strong start in the match but couldn’t maintain his performance till the end, resulting in his defeat.

What is the Monte Carlo Masters?

The Monte Carlo Masters is a tennis tournament for professional male players held in Monte Carlo, Monaco. It takes place at the Monte Carlo Country Club and occurs in April each year. It is part of the ATP Tour as a Masters 1000 event.

Nagal’s Performance Shines Brighter This Year

Sumit Nagal’s performance has been exceptional this year. He began the year by defeating Alexander Bublik in the Australian Open, marking his first Grand Slam victory. Later, he won the Chennai Open and secured a place in the top 100 in the ATP rankings. At the start of this week, Nagal achieved his career-best ranking of 95.

Bopanna to Partner Nagal in Doubles Henceforth

Following his achievements, Sumit Nagal will also be seen playing doubles with Rohan Bopanna, who recently won the Australian Open doubles title. Bopanna will partner with Nagal for this tournament, playing alongside his Australian partner Matthew Ebden.