India Takes Commanding 2-0 Lead Against Togo in Davis Cup Play-Off
India leads 2-0 against Togo in the Davis Cup World Group I play-offs after dominant wins by Sasikumar Mukund and Ramkumar Ramanathan, both showcasing superior skills. Mukund defeated Liova Ayite Ajavon 6-2, 6-1, while Ramanathan triumphed over Thomas Setodji 6-0, 6-2. The action continues with scheduled doubles and singles matches set for February 2, 2025.
In a stellar commencement to their Davis Cup World Group I play-off tie against Togo at the DLTA Complex in New Delhi, India surged to a 2-0 lead on February 1, 2025. Sasikumar Mukund and Ramkumar Ramanathan each delivered dominating performances, securing victories that showcased their skills on the court. Mukund triumphed over Liova Ayite Ajavon with a score of 6-2, 6-1, while Ramanathan bested Thomas Setodji, winning 6-0, 6-2.
Mukund, ranked No. 365 globally, completed his match in a swift 44 minutes, demonstrating superior form against Ajavon, aged 25. The Indian player quickly established a significant lead of 4-0 in the second set, although he experienced a brief lapse in concentration causing him to lose his serve once. However, he quickly regained focus and finished the match decisively.
Ramkumar Ramanathan continued India’s strong momentum in the second singles match, achieving an emphatic 6-0, 6-2 victory against Setodji, who is ranked 800 places below him at No. 1206. Ramanathan’s performance included an impressive display of power, evident in his 10 aces, as he concluded the match in just 50 minutes.
Looking ahead, the Indian team plans to employ N Sriram Balaji and Rithvik Bollipalli in the doubles match scheduled for the following day, February 2. The matches are set to continue with further singles encounters involving Mukund Sasikumar against Thomas Setodji and Ramkumar Ramanathan opposing Liova Ajavon.
The results from the first day of the competition indicate a robust start for India against Togo, with significant contributions from both Mukund and Ramanathan. Their victories lay a promising foundation for the remaining matches in the series, providing the Indian team with a favorable position as they aim to continue their success.
The Davis Cup is a prestigious international team event in men’s tennis, often compared to the World Cup in football. India and Togo are competing in a World Group I play-off, an essential step toward maintaining or advancing their global rankings in this esteemed competition. Events are held in multiple rounds, and teams must perform well to secure a spot in subsequent stages. The current tie’s significance extends beyond individual matches, impacting the national standings and opportunities for players involved.
India’s remarkable performance in the Davis Cup against Togo demonstrates the strength and capability of its tennis athletes. With Mukund and Ramanathan achieving emphatic victories, India is well-positioned to pursue further success in upcoming matches. The team’s prospects look bright as they aim to leverage their current lead to secure a decisive overall win in the tie.
Original Source: www.indiatoday.in
