Dhakshineswar Suresh Bests Top-100 Player to Level India’s Davis Cup Tie Against Netherlands
(Pic: Pramod Mani)
The Davis Cup atmosphere in Bengaluru reached a fever pitch as Dhakshineswar Suresh delivered a statement victory, defeating the Netherlands’ Jesper de Jong in straight sets. Stepping onto the court with India trailing 0-1, Suresh, a key pillar of the national side, showcased clinical precision to secure a 6-4, 7-5 win.
Jesper de Jong is no stranger to the big stage, having famously challenged Carlos Alcaraz at the 2024 French Open, taking a set off the then World No. 3. However, Suresh remained entirely focused on the task at hand. Utilizing his height and power, he dictated play from the back of the court and refused to let the Dutchman settle into a rhythm.
After a competitive start, Suresh found the decisive break in the tenth game of the first set, sending a surge of energy through the home supporters.
The second set was a test of nerves. Even as de Jong attempted to lean on his experience, Suresh stayed aggressive, breaking late in the set to seal the match and avoid a tiebreak.
The Tie Resurrected
Suresh’s victory has transformed the outlook of this Davis Cup Qualifier. By neutralizing the highest-ranked singles player in the Dutch lineup, he has ensured that India enters the second day on even footing.
With the score tied at 1-1, the pressure now shifts to the doubles and reverse singles, where the Bengaluru crowd will undoubtedly look to replicate the electric support that carried Suresh to the finish line.
The Scoreline: 🇮🇳 D. Suresh def. 🇳🇱 J. de Jong | 6-4, 7-5
