Indian Star Sumit Nagal Falls to Chinese Teen at Aus Open 2024

In the second round of the Australian Open 2024, Indian tennis sensation Sumit Nagal was defeated by the 18-year-old Chinese player Juncheng Shang, with scores of 6-2, 3-6, 5-7, 4-6 on Thursday.

Nagal had made an impressive entry into the main draw by winning three qualifying rounds without losing a set and then achieved a notable victory over the 27th seed Alexander Bublik in the first round. This win marked the first time in over a decade that an Indian player had progressed to the second round of the Australian Open.

Initially, Nagal seemed on track to make further history by reaching the third round, especially after he started strong against Shang, breaking his serve in the opening game and easily taking the first set 6-2. However, Shang elevated his performance, reducing his mistakes and effectively targeting the corners of the court. This shift in dynamics put pressure on Nagal, who struggled with his more passive strategy.

Shang then took the second set with a 6-3 win. He maintained his strong serving game, preventing Nagal from finding his rhythm. The pivotal moment came in the penultimate game of the third set when Shang broke Nagal’s serve and secured the set 7-5.

In the final set, Nagal’s energy seemed to wane, and his unforced errors increased, allowing Shang to demonstrate his power. Shang won the set 4-6, resulting in Nagal’s exit from the tournament in a four-set match.

Shang is now set to face Carlos Alcaraz from Spain in the third round at the Rod Laver Arena.