Sumit Nagal criticizes AITA over Davis Cup team photo ahead of Sweden tie
Indian tennis star Sumit Nagal has given rise to another controversy following his criticism of the All India Tennis Association (AITA). The Indian team will face Sweden in the all-important Davis Cup World Group I tie. The tie, set for September 14-15 (Saturday and Sunday) in Stockholm, has already garnered attention, but Nagal's remarks have cast a spotlight on the team's dynamics off the court.
In the build-up to the match, a group photo, where the Indian Davis Cup officials and players are seen together, was shared online. Rakesh Tiwari, Charge d’Affaires of the Indian Embassy in Stockholm, took the photo.
The image shows the officials prominently positioned in the front, with the players, somewhat relegated, standing behind them. Sumit Nagal was quick to express his displeasure on social media, taking to X to voice his concerns. His tweet read,
“Maybe it’s time to get players in the front row as well?” he tweeted.
Nagal’s tweet seems to reflect broader frustrations within the Indian tennis community regarding how players are represented and treated in such events. His comment immediately drew attention, adding to the build-up ahead of the important clash against Sweden.
India have never beaten Sweden in the Davis Cup, losing five previous encounters. However, the Indian team will be optimistic about their chances to break the losing streak in Stockholm.
The Swedish squad, lacking intimidating names, offer hope for an upset, even though India’s top singles players, Sumit Nagal and Yuki Bhambri, are absent for different reasons.
Sumit Nagal's withdrawal from the Sweden tie
Sumit Nagal had pulled out of the tie against Sweden in August, citing a back injury that flared up following his first-round exit at the US Open. His injury also forced him to withdraw from his men's doubles commitments at the Grand Slam. With Nagal out, India will be relying on the remaining players to step up against Sweden in the game that will be played on a medium-speed indoor court at the Royal Tennis Hall.
While Sweden may have a slight advantage due to familiar conditions as they play at home, India’s big servers may have fancied a faster court. Nevertheless, the team will remain hopeful about overcoming the odds.
The draw for the Davis Cup will take place on Friday, September 13. The singles matches are set for the first day. The doubles and reverse singles matches are scheduled for Sunday, September 15.
The winner of the tie will advance to the 2025 Qualifiers. On the other hand, the losing side will have to compete in the World Group I play-offs.