A men’s singles showdown between Sumit Nagal and Dhakshineswar Suresh, headlined the first match of the day between AOS Eagles and Aussie Mavericks Kites as Bengaluru was treated to another day of high-octane tennis as the World Tennis League (WTL) continued its India debut at the SM Krishna Tennis Stadium on Thursday.
It wasn’t just a clash between India’s leading singles star and his challenger, but also that of styles. While Nagal is a true-blue counterpuncher, Suresh, standing tall at 6’5, is already known for his big serves and attacking game.
After going toe-to-toe in the set, Nagal and Suresh delivered the first tie-break of the tournament so far. At 6-6 in the breaker, WTL’s deciding ‘golden point’ rule kicked into gear. Nagal won the point, game and set to complete the clean sweep for the Eagles, who soared to a 25-13 victory.
Earlier, Paula Badosa had set the tone for the Eagles, as she overpowered Marta Kostyuk 6-1 in the opening set. Badosa, the 2025 Australian Open semi-finalist, has been afflicted with injury in the second half of the season but was at her stroke-making best against the Ukrainian on Thursday.
The Spaniard’s continued the dominant run as she combined with Gael Monfils for a successful, and entertaining, set in the mixed doubles. Monfils’ athleticism and touch and Badosa’s firepower from the baseline helped them upstage Suresh and Marta Kostyuk 6-3. In the men’s doubles, Monfils-Nagal overcame Suresh-Nick Kyrgios 6-3.
The WTL, which is in his fourth season, has given the Indian audience a unique view of some of the biggest names in the sport. While the tennis has been top notch, players have opened up in the fun, relaxed atmosphere, giving a glimpse into their personality. Australian maverick Kyrgios has been a team-player to the core, while Badosa and Monfils have danced their way to success.
Four franchises are competing this year and will play each other once in a round-robin format before the top two qualify for the final.
Each tie consists of four sets – men’s singles, women’s singles, men’s doubles, women’s/mixed doubles. Victory is decided by number of games won, with each game won counting for one point.
Results: AOS Eagles vs Aussie Mavericks Kites 25-13 (Paula Badosa (Eagles) bt Marta Kostyuk (Kites) 6-1; Paula Badosa-Gael Monfils (Eagles) bt Dhakshineswar Suresh-Marta Kostyuk (Kites) 6-3; Sumit Nagal-Gael Monfils (Eagles) bt Nick Kyrgios-Dhakshineswar Suresh (Kites) 6-3; Sumit Nagal (Eagles) bt Dhakshineswar Suresh (Kites) 7-6).
