AITA Points to Missed Opportunities After India’s Heavy Loss to Sweden
The All India Tennis Association (AITA) has accused top Indian players Sumit Nagal, Yuki Bhambri, and Mukund Sasikumar of declining to represent the country in the Davis Cup match against Sweden. India suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat in Stockholm, with the AITA expressing disappointment in the players’ absence, particularly Nagal, who was reportedly competing in China.
Over the weekend, India faced strong opposition as Sweden secured the tie with decisive victories. Elias Ymer defeated N Sriram Balaji, while Ramkumar Ramanathan also fell to Leo Borg, son of tennis legend Bjorn Borg. On Sunday, Sweden clinched the doubles match when Philip Bergevi and Andre Goransson beat Ramanathan and Balaji. Elias Ymer later triumphed over Siddharth Vishwakarma, completing the sweep.
AITA Secretary Anil Dhupar was critical, stating, “If Sumit and Yuki had played, we would have had a better chance.” Dhupar went on to question Nagal’s injury, suggesting it may have been exaggerated, and also criticized Sasikumar, who did not respond to team captain Rohit Rajpal’s repeated calls. Sasikumar, currently suspended by the AITA, reportedly refused to engage with the association despite an offer to appeal his ban.
Sumit Nagal has since responded angrily, clarifying that his absence was due to a back injury, although he is now competing in China. Bhambri cited personal reasons and scheduling conflicts that prevented his participation. The absence of these key players left India at a severe disadvantage, forcing the team to battle for a World Group I playoff spot next year.
This defeat marks India’s sixth consecutive loss to Sweden in Davis Cup history, adding to the pressure on newly appointed national coach Ashutosh Singh. The team’s future hangs in the balance as they navigate a challenging period following the resignation of former coach Zeeshan Ali.
India, which has yet to win the Davis Cup, finished as runner-up in 1966, 1974, and 1987. The AITA hopes to turn things around for upcoming matches and regain competitive form on the world stage.
