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Sumit Nagal reveals India icon Virat Kohli’s massive role in his success

Sumit Nagal reveals India icon Virat Kohli’s massive role in his success

Making it to the second round of the Australian Open, Sumit Nagal revealed the significant role played by India's cricket icon Virat Kohli in his success.

Sumit Nagal made history at the Australian Open 2024 by becoming the first Indian to defeat a seeded player at a Grand Slam, overcoming World No. 27 Alexander Bublik in straight sets of 6-4, 6-2, 7-6 (5). Nagal, ranked World No. 137, secured passage to the second round, where he will face China’s Juncheng Shang.

Behind Nagal’s success is a tale of resilience and support from an unexpected source—former Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli’s foundation. Nagal revealed, “Virat Kohli’s foundation has been supporting me since 2017. I haven’t been performing well for the last two years and was facing a financial crisis. If I didn’t have Virat Kohli supporting me, I don’t know what I would have done.”

Nagal acknowledged the pivotal role Kohli’s foundation played during tough times, stating, “I had six dollars in my wallet… just six dollars after the help that I have been getting, so imagine what a mess I must have been before. But I survived, and things are getting better. If people fund athletes, it will only help the sport flourish in the country. I am fortunate to get that support from Virat.”

Making it to the second round of Australian Open Sumit Nagal reveals India icon Virat Kohli's massive role in his success

Looking ahead, Nagal is set to face 18-year-old Juncheng Shang, ranked 142 in the ATP Rankings. If successful, Nagal could potentially face second-seeded and World No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz in the third round, presenting an exciting journey for the Indian tennis sensation.

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