In their debut match on hard courts, the Indo-French pair of Yuki Bhambri and Albano Olivetti faced a tough defeat in the first round of the ATP 500 Citi Open in Washington, D.C. The duo lost to the 6th-seeded pair, Sadio Doumbia of France and Hugo Nys of Monaco, with a score of 6-7(4), 4-6.

The match was closely contested, with Bhambri and Olivetti pushing the experienced team of Doumbia and Nys to a tiebreaker in the first set. However, they fell short in the critical moments, ultimately losing the tiebreak 4-7. The second set saw the pair putting up a strong fight but ultimately succumbing to a 4-6 defeat.

Despite the loss, Bhambri and Olivetti have showcased promising teamwork throughout the clay court season, winning two ATP 250 titles together. This experience on hard courts will be invaluable as they continue to develop their partnership. Fans look forward to seeing how the pair will progress in upcoming events.

It may be recalled that the Citi Open is a memorable venue for Yuki Bhambri, as he had made the singles quarter-final in this event in 2017, beating the then defending champion Gael Monfils along the way.