By Khushi Namdev
India’s Dakshineshwar Suresh led the team to a historic 3-2 win over the Netherlands in the Davis Cup qualifiers Round 1, held in Bengaluru. Suresh’s exceptional performance, winning the decisive fifth rubber and sealing India’s place in the next round of the event.
The 25 year old won both of his singles matches and also triumphed in doubles alongside partner Yuki Bhambri. Suresh’s remarkable feat has drawn comparisons with Indian Tennis Legend Leander Peas. The victory has been linked to Peas’s heroics in 2004 against Japan, and It is after 20 years that such a moment has been repeated in the history of Indian Tennis.
Suresh who hails from Madurai, Tamil Nadu, has been ranked as low as 465, performed with utmost composure and held his nerve under pressure in the fifth rubber against Guy De Ouden who is ranked 162. His game is built on his strong, precise serves and aggressive baseline strokes which highlights both his intent and technique of the game.
This is the first time India has qualified for the second round of the Davis Cup in the current format making it a historic achievement for the country. It is only the second appearance for the young talent and fans are already celebrating him as India’s new tennis hero.
The Davis Cup is the premier international team event in men’s event, organised by the International Tennis Federation and contested annually by more than 150 countries. Started in 1900, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious tournaments in sports. The atmosphere of the event is highly energetic and patriotic, as players compete for their countries and rather than for individual titles.