In a remarkable achievement for Indian tennis, 23-year-old Rithvik Bollipalli has taken a significant leap in the ATP doubles rankings. After a string of impressive performances, Bollipalli has jumped 17 places to reach a career-high World No. 85, making him the youngest Indian player ever to break into the ATP Top 90 in doubles.
This achievement signals the rise of a new star in Indian tennis, with many tipping him as the next big thing on the international tennis circuit.
Rithvik Bollipalli: Doubles specialist from start
Unlike many tennis players who begin their careers focusing on singles before transitioning to doubles, Rithvik Bollipalli has been making waves primarily in doubles from an early age. His journey has been unique, and his recent ascent to the upper echelons of the ATP doubles rankings underscores the potential for a bright future.
Rithvik Bollipalli’s rapid rise in the rankings comes just behind American Alex Michelsen, ranked No. 94, making Bollipalli the second-youngest player in the ATP Top 100.
Milestone victory in Almaty
Bollipalli’s rise to prominence was further solidified after a stunning victory at the Almaty Open 2024, an ATP 250 tournament in Kazakhstan. Partnering with fellow Indian player Arjun Kadhe, the duo pulled off a dramatic comeback to clinch their maiden ATP Tour title. Facing Colombia’s Nicolas Barrientos and Tunisia’s Skander Mansouri, Bollipalli and Kadhe came from a set down to win 3-6, 7-6(3), 14-12 in a thrilling super tiebreak.
The road to the final wasn’t easy. In the semi-finals, the Indian pair triumphed over Germany’s Jakob Schnaitter and Mark Wallner, and earlier in the tournament, they upset higher-seeded teams, including France’s Sadio Doumbia and Fabien Reboul, the second seeds.
Rising star in Indian Tennis
Rithvik Bollipalli’s success in doubles is a refreshing change for Indian tennis, where singles players typically take the spotlight. His focus on doubles and his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations make him a unique talent in the Indian sporting landscape. After his ATP 250 win, Bollipalli’s ranking surge is a testament to his hard work and consistency.
With this triumph, Bollipalli has placed himself in the spotlight, showing immense potential to take Indian tennis to new heights. His calm demeanor under pressure, coupled with his excellent court coverage and net play, sets him apart as a rising star in the world of tennis.
What’s ahead for Rithvik Bollipalli
As Bollipalli continues his upward trajectory in the ATP rankings, the future looks bright for this young tennis sensation. His recent accomplishments suggest that he could be the next major player to represent India on the global stage, particularly in doubles, where India has historically found success with legends like Mahesh Bhupathi and Leander Paes.
With his talent, determination, and growing experience, Rithvik Bollipalli is undoubtedly a player to watch in the coming years.
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