Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Feb 9: India scripted a memorable chapter in its tennis history by storming into the second round of the Davis Cup Qualifiers with a stunning 3-2 victory over world No. 6 Netherlands at Bengaluru on Friday.
Youngster Dhakshineswar Suresh emerged as the hero of the tie, delivering a sensational performance by winning both his singles matches and pairing up with Yuki Bhambri to clinch the crucial doubles rubber. In the deciding match, Suresh held his nerves to defeat Guy de Ouden 6-4, 7-6, sealing the historic win amid scenes reminiscent of Leander Paes’ famous Davis Cup heroics in 2004.
Earlier, India had gained a vital 2-1 advantage after Suresh and Bhambri survived a gruelling doubles encounter, winning 7-6, 3-6, 7-6. However, the tie saw a setback as Sumit Nagal lost both his singles matches, keeping the contest finely balanced until the final rubber.
The victory marks the first time India have advanced to the second round of the Davis Cup Qualifiers since the introduction of the new format in 2019, moving a step closer to the elite eight-team Finals.
India will now face South Korea in the second round of the Davis Cup 2026 Qualifiers, scheduled to be held in September.