Indian Tennis in Davis Cup Crisis: Bickering, Apathy, and Declining Performance
Indian tennis has witnessed a significant decline in its Davis Cup performance, transitioning from being a formidable opponent to struggling in lower groups. This decline is accompanied by internal strife, including frequent bickering, finger-pointing, and apathy.
Following a 4-0 defeat to Sweden, the team captain urged critics to “shut up,” while the federation blamed certain players. Sumit Nagal, India’s top-ranked singles player, defended his physical issues and compensation demands.
This breakdown in communication and trust has resulted in India fielding a weakened team for the second consecutive tie. Top players Nagal, Sasikumar Mukund, and Yuki Bhambri were absent due to injury concerns or personal choices.
Indian tennis has a history of player-vs-player and player-vs-federation conflicts, but the current situation is particularly dire. Former Davis Cupper Vishaal Uppal emphasizes the need to address player grievances and foster a harmonious relationship.
Similar issues arose three years ago when Nagal withdrew from a tie due to injury, and Mukund declined to replace him. Somdev Devvarman criticized the leadership for failing to motivate players.
Despite these concerns, the AITA elections later this month offer a glimmer of hope for change. Players are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a shift in leadership that prioritizes their well-being and the revival of Indian tennis in Davis Cup.