Manas Dhamne enters ITF $15,000 Zahra semi-final
ZAHRA, KUWAIT — The momentum continues to build for India’s Manas Dhamne at the ITF M15 Zahra, as the 18-year-old officially secured his spot in the semifinals. Currently the second-youngest player in the ATP Top 500, Dhamne’s progression in Kuwait moves him one step closer towards his first pro title of 2026.
After dismantling veteran Gijs Brouwer in the previous round, Dhamne advanced through the quarterfinal stage on Friday, ensuring he remains the man to beat in the final four. He will face ATP 782 Luca Staeheli from Switzerland next.
A Clinical Campaign
Dhamne’s week in Zahra has been a testament to his “top seed” status. He has navigated the draw with a mix of aggressive baseline play and the poise of a seasoned professional.
| Round | Opponent | Result | Key Takeaway |
| R32 | Maxence Rivet (FRA) | W (6-4, 4-6, 6-1) | Showed grit in a three-set grind |
| R16 | Gijs Brouwer (NED) | W (6-3, 6-3) | A statement win over a former Top 120 pro |
| QF | Evgeny Karlovskiy (RUS) | W (Advanced) | Secured a spot in the final four |
Eyes on the Final
With the field narrowing, Dhamne stands a good chance to reach Sunday’s final. His ability to maintain high intensity on the Kuwaiti hard courts has been the talk of the tournament. The young star now shifts his focus to the semifinal clash, where his tactical adaptability and relentless precision will be put to the ultimate test. For Indian tennis fans, Dhamne’s consistent deep runs in 2026 are a clear signal that the teenager is fast outgrowing the ITF circuit.
