From underdog to champion: Dakshineshwar Suresh orchestrated India’s 3-2 upset over powerhouse Netherlands in Bengaluru’s Davis Cup showdown. The result books India’s ticket to the second-round qualifiers in September, intensifying the race to the Davis Cup Finals.
Suresh was the fulcrum of success. His Saturday singles victory against top seed Jesper de Jong set the tone. In Sunday’s doubles debut with Yuki Bhambri, they navigated a rollercoaster 7-6(0), 3-6, 7-6(1) defeat of the Dutch pair Pel-Arends, enduring three hours of pulsating action.
Sumit Nagal’s reverse singles effort was valiant but fell short 5-7, 6-1, 6-4 against de Jong, despite a painful thigh injury. The tie hung in balance at 2-2.
Suresh sealed immortality in the clincher, overpowering Guy Den Ouden in straight sets. Mirroring Leander Paes’ 2004 exploit, he’s the latest Indian to win three rubbers in one tie—India’s finest Davis Cup stride in 15 years.
Star cricketer Rishabh Pant tweeted his admiration: ‘Indian tennis scores big in Davis Cup Qualifier. Beating Netherlands demands bravery. Outstanding play, guys.’
This milestone victory transcends sport, fostering belief in India’s tennis ecosystem and heralding a competitive era ahead.