Hangzhou Open 2024: Why was Sumit Nagal's Round of 32 men's singles match canceled?
Indian tennis star Sumit Nagal was scheduled to compete in the Round of 32 at the Hangzhou Open 2024 against Japan’s Yasutaka Uchiyama on September 19. Nagal, ranked 82nd in the world, was considered the frontrunner for this match against the 160th-ranked Uchiyama. However, to the disappointment of his fans, the match was canceled after Nagal withdrew from the tournament at the last minute.
Nagal's sudden withdrawal raised eyebrows as he was expected to advance past his opponent comfortably. While Nagal's withdrawal from the Hangzhou Open hasn’t been publicly explained, the timing of this decision coincided with his recent absence from the Davis Cup.
Sumit Nagal clarifies his absence from the Davis Cup
Just days before the Hangzhou Open 2024, Sumit Nagal faced heavy criticism for skipping the Davis Cup 2024. India suffered a 0-4 defeat to Sweden in the World Group I match held in Stockholm.
All India Tennis Association (AITA) Secretary Anil Dhupar pointed out that the lack of key players, particularly Nagal and Yuki Bhambri, was a significant blow to the team. Nagal responded to the criticism by clarifying his position on social media, explaining that injury concerns were behind his decision to sit out of the Davis Cup.
On September 19, with a social media post, Nagal expressed his disappointment at missing out but emphasized that his decision was made after thorough consultations with his medical team.
"However, after consulting with my medical team, it became clear that competing while carrying an injury could not only jeopardise my health but also adversely impact the team's chances. I believe it is better for the team and for the country to have someone at 100% rather than risking further injury and potentially disrupting the match. I had informed AITA well in advance about my inability to participate,” Nagal’s statement read.
While Nagal explained his absence from the Davis Cup due to injury, he has remained silent about the reason behind his withdrawal from the Hangzhou Open. The 27-year-old last featured at the US Open on August 27 where he suffered a first-round exit. Sumit Nagal lost to Tallon Griekspoor of the Netherlands 1-6, 3-6, 6-7 (6-8) to make an early exit from the tournament.