By Ramkumar Ramanathan expressed confidence in the Indian Davis Cup team’s ability to face Sweden, especially on clay courts, if chosen for the September tie. The team is set to travel to Sweden, aiming for their first victory over the European nation in their sixth encounter. Ramkumar highlighted their familiarity with the playing style of Swedish players as an advantage. India secured qualification for the World Group by defeating Pakistan 4-0 in the recent playoffs held in Islamabad.
“It’s likely they’ll choose to play on clay. However, we’ve been playing exceptional tennis, and Sumit Nagal, in particular, can grind out matches. I’m confident he’s very fit as well,” Ramkumar stated during a media interaction at the felicitation ceremony organized by the KSLTA for the Davis Cup players.
“Rankings don’t determine outcomes on the court; it all boils down to how well we perform on that particular day. Aisam ul-Haq Quershi’s performance for Pakistan in the Davis Cup is a testament to this, right?” The ceremony was attended by N Sriram Balaji, Saketh Myneni, Nikki Poonacha, and Sunil Yajaman, the joint secretary of KSLTA.
Ramkumar also expressed his intention to further refine his singles skills ahead of the Sweden tie.
“Sweden is a formidable team with players like Elias Ymer (world No. 160). I aim to enhance my singles game in the coming months. I’ve played against Elias, and he’s a highly skilled player with an exceptional backhand and consistent baseline play. So, we have some insights into their game, and we need to capitalize on them.
“It’s expected to be a closely contested match, but I believe we have an advantage in doubles,” Ramkumar remarked.
Despite Rohan Bopanna no longer participating in the Davis Cup, India boasts a strong doubles lineup with Yuki Bhambri, Sriram Balaji, Vijay Prashanth, and Anirudh Chandrasekhar all ranked within the top 100.
Ramkumar also praised Bopanna, who recently attained the world No. 1 spot in doubles rankings.
“Being number one in the world is an extraordinary achievement. It’s incredibly difficult, and I congratulate him for all his hard work and sacrifices.
“Indian tennis players can look up to him for inspiration. I’m certain he will motivate many players,” said Ramkumar, who was once Bopanna’s doubles partner. The players also fondly recalled their first trip to Pakistan, describing it as a memorable experience both on and off the court.
