Tennis | More events like Bengaluru Open needed in India, says Zeeshan Ali

Bengaluru is all set to host the ATP Challenger Bengaluru Open which will be held from November 12 to 17 at Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association Stadium. With India’s lead single’s players like Ramkumar Ramanathan, Yuki Bhambri, defending champion Sumit Nagal, and Prajnesh Gunneswaran participating in the event, there is a reason to rejoice for the players - the prize money of the Tournament has been increased from $100000 to $150000.

“We need to have more of these tournaments. Players are also looking forward to coming because of the precious ATP points. It helps the players get that breakthrough. Sumit Nagal won last year. He was ranked close to 400s and improved his ranking. That’s what our players need” Zeeshan Ali said at the launch of this year’s Bengaluru Open.

“An event like this – a 150,000-dollar tournament plus hospitality – is a huge opportunity for players,” said Zeeshan.

Before the Bengaluru Open, Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association will conduct a national-level ranking tournament from October 22 to 27 and the winner will have a chance to make it into the main draw of the Bengaluru Open. Earlier next year the Davis Cup qualifying rounds will take place in February which will be held in a new format where ATP points will be important.

“With the Davis Cup also coming up against Italy in February and rankings being one of the criteria for selection, this tournament will be important,” the coach said.