Indian No. 1 Sumit Nagal was interviewed by the Indian Davis Cupper Prakash Amritraj for the Tennis Channel post his R1 win. The excerpts from the interview are below.
Interviewer: Welcome back to Monte Carlo, a place steeped in tennis history. Sumit, what a spectacular win today! It’s been several impressive victories lately. Can you describe the emotions surging through you as you secured that final point?
Sumit Nagal: Thank you. Honestly, it’s a feeling of both relief and satisfaction. I believe the key for me recently has been consistency – playing a lot of matches and gaining momentum. The last few years have been a rollercoaster, but the past few months have shown me that I’m on the right track, playing in the tournaments I aspire to be a part of. As for today, it’s a special feeling – my first Masters win. The match against Arnaldi was challenging, with some missed opportunities in the first set, but I’m incredibly proud of how I dominated the last two sets.
Interviewer: Your presence here in Monte Carlo is historic. It’s been 42 years since an Indian player graced the main draw – the legendary Ramesh Krishnan back in the 80s. You’ve not only qualified but made a triumphant first-round victory. Traditionally, Indian players haven’t found their strongest footing on clay surfaces, yet you’re excelling on it. What do you attribute your success on clay to?
Sumit Nagal: It goes back to my roots, really. I began playing tennis on clay courts as a young boy. While my time in Canada didn’t offer as much clay court experience, the past decade in Germany has reignited my love for the surface. There’s something about the way I move on clay that fills me with confidence, and I think that translates into my game.
Interviewer: Your journey to this point is incredibly inspiring. There was a period not too long ago when the possibility of continuing your professional career seemed uncertain. Could you share some insights into that challenging time?
Sumit Nagal: Looking back, it was a constant cycle dependent on my weekly results. Good results meant support and resources for the next month; less successful weeks often meant traveling and competing alone. Those two or three years were tough, but they shaped me as a person, off the court as much as on it. I realized the immense value of a support system and learned to appreciate the things that truly matter. In a way, I think those struggles were necessary to forge the resilience I have today.
Interviewer: Your successes on the tour, particularly your Grand Slam victories like the one against Bublik at the Australian Open this year, must have resonated deeply back home in India. How has the Indian tennis community and the fans responded to your achievements?
Sumit Nagal: I feel incredibly fortunate to receive such overwhelming love and support from Indians all over the world. The pride and excitement they express are incredibly motivating. After a win, the outpouring of support is unlike anything else. It makes me want to keep pushing, to keep representing India on the global stage. And what’s amazing is that the Indian diaspora is everywhere, so there’s always that feeling of support no matter where I’m playing.
Interviewer: With your continued success, and your live ranking rising to 80, you’re becoming a source of immense pride for Indians around the world. Your next challenge is a formidable one – Holger Rune, who had a fantastic run here last year. What’s your mindset and strategy for this much-anticipated match?
Sumit Nagal: At this point, it’s about enjoying the experience. I’m playing well, my body feels strong, and let’s be honest, Rune is a world-class, top-10 player with a proven track record here. Of course, there are tactics involved, but I want to savor the competition, the atmosphere, and just play my best in what is undoubtedly one of the best tournaments on the circuit And hey, I’m known for hitting those balls hard, so that’s definitely not going to change!
Interviewer: We’re thrilled that Tennis Channel TCI has launched in India. Any message you’d like to share with your growing fanbase back home?
Sumit Nagal: Keep the support coming! Playing singles can be a lonely journey at times, but every positive message, every bit of encouragement makes a huge difference. I hope to keep seeing you all at the tournaments!