Monastir, Tunisia – Seventeen-year-old Indian tennis sensation Manas Dhamne has etched his name in the record books, becoming the second youngest Indian man ever to win a professional tennis title. Dhamne achieved this remarkable feat at the $15,000 ITF World Tennis Tour tournament in Monastir, Tunisia.

At 17 years and one month old, Dhamne trails only Yuki Bhambri, who won the 2009 New Delhi Futures at 16 years and 10 months, as the youngest Indian man to capture a pro title. However, Dhamne’s victory is even more significant as he is now the youngest Indian man to win a professional title outside of India.

Dhamne’s achievement underscores his rapidly growing potential and marks a major milestone in his burgeoning career. He joins an elite group as only the fourth player born in 2007 or later to win an ITF Pro Singles title. The other three are Justin Engel, Federico Cinà, and Maxim Mrva.

Dhamne’s journey to victory in Monastir was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing his resilience and skill. His run to the title can only be described as impressive. He played eight matches in eight days, culminating in six hours of play over 26 hours to win the last three rounds, including a remarkable comeback win in the final. He achieved five upset victories throughout the week, including wins over three seeded players, notably the top seed, whom he defeated in the semifinals.

Adding to the remarkable nature of his win, this is likely the first time in professional tennis history that a qualifier and the lucky loser (LL) he beat in the qualifying rounds faced each other in the final. The presence of other talented teenagers like Maxim Mrva and Lorenzo Carboni (from whom we will undoubtedly hear more in the future) at this tournament makes Dhamne’s achievement even more impressive.

Here’s a summary of his results:

• Qualifying Round 1: (13) Manas Dhamne (IND,1013) d. (ALT) Maxwell Castle (GBR,NR), 62 60
• Qualifying Round 2: (13) Manas Dhamne (IND,1013) d. (WC) David Petrovic (GER,1621), 62 60
• Qualifying Round 3: (13) Manas Dhamne (IND,1013) d. (6) Lorenzo Carboni (ITA,829) 62 60
• Round 1: (Q) Manas Dhamne (IND,1013) d. (JR) Nikolai Barsukov (GER,NR) 61 46 61
• Round 2: (Q) Manas Dhamne (IND,1013) d. (3) Alejo Sanchez Quilez (ESP,576), 63 63
• Quarterfinal: (Q) Manas Dhamne (IND,1013) d. (5) Maximilian Neuchrist (AUT,589), 67(5) 63
• Semifinal: (Q) Manas Dhamne (IND,1013) d. (1) Alberto Barroso Campos (ESP,539), 64, 63
• Final: (Q) Manas Dhamne (IND,1013) d. (LL) Lorenzo Carboni (ITA,829), 26 60 61

This victory is projected to propel Dhamne’s ranking inside the top 800, making him the second youngest player in the world at that level. This ranking, which will be official on February 17th, guarantees Manas a coveted slot in the French Open Junior Qualifying draw.

Dhamne’s training under the guidance of renowned coach Riccardo Piatti, who has also coached top players like Jannik Sinner, further highlights his dedication and commitment to reaching the highest levels of the game. This victory in Tunisia serves as a powerful testament to his hard work and the quality of his training.

Manas Dhamne will be in action next at the ITF M15 in Monastir, Tunisia this week, followed by the ATP Pune Challenger hosted by the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association.

This historic win is expected to provide a significant boost to his confidence as he continues to pursue his goals in professional tennis. The Indian tennis community is celebrating Dhamne’s success and eagerly anticipates his future achievements.