Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Dec 21: India’s rising tennis star Dhakshineswar Suresh played a decisive role in helping the Aussie Mavericks Kites clinch their maiden World Tennis League (WTL) title, edging past the AOS Eagles 22-19 in a thrilling final at the SM Krishna Stadium on Saturday.
After finishing Day 2 at the bottom of the standings, the Mavericks scripted a remarkable turnaround in the momentum-driven tournament format, where every set counts. Backed by a packed crowd that included cricket legends Kapil Dev and KL Rahul, the team surged into the final and delivered under pressure to secure the championship.
Suresh emerged as one of the standout performers of the tournament, reinforcing his reputation as one of India’s most promising prospects. The 6’5”, 25-year-old, who trains through the American college tennis system and currently represents Wake Forest University, impressed throughout the week, including notable wins over top-tier opponents such as Daniil Medvedev. In the final, Suresh produced a composed and aggressive display to defeat Sumit Nagal 7-6 in the deciding men’s singles match, avenging his earlier group-stage loss.
The title clash began with Marta Kostyuk giving the Mavericks an early advantage by defeating Shrivalli Bhamidipaty 6-4. The AOS Eagles, who had entered the final unbeaten, responded in the mixed doubles as Shrivalli paired with Gael Monfils to beat Suresh and Kostyuk 6-3. However, the Mavericks regained control when Nick Kyrgios teamed up with Suresh to secure a 6-3 win over Nagal and Monfils, setting the stage for Suresh’s match-winning singles performance.
The tournament featured an impressive lineup of global stars, including Medvedev, Monfils, Kyrgios, Denis Shapovalov, Paula Badosa, and former world No. 3 Elina Svitolina. Indian tennis was well represented by veterans such as two-time Grand Slam champion Rohan Bopanna, Yuki Bhambri, Sumit Nagal, and Olympian Ankita Raina.
WTL also served as a valuable platform for young Indian players like Suresh, Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, Sahaja Yamalapalli, and Maaya Rajeswaran Revathi, offering them rare opportunities to train and compete alongside elite international professionals. The experience is expected to play a key role in shaping the next generation of Indian tennis talent.
Known for its relaxed yet competitive atmosphere, the mixed-team World Tennis League and its fast-paced four-set format delivered high entertainment value, making the event both fan-friendly and intense.
Final Results:
Aussie Mavericks Kites beat AOS Eagles 22-19
• Marta Kostyuk bt Shrivalli Bhamidipaty 6-4
• Shrivalli Bhamidipaty–Gael Monfils bt Dhakshineswar Suresh–Marta Kostyuk 6-3
• Dhakshineswar Suresh–Nick Kyrgios bt Sumit Nagal–Gael Monfils 6-3
• Dhakshineswar Suresh bt Sumit Nagal 7-6