Sumit Nagal, the talented tennis player from Jhajjhar, Haryana, has had an inspiring journey in 2024, breaking into the ATP Top 100 for the first time in his career. This milestone is particularly significant given the current state of Indian tennis, where domestic support is limited, and the All India Tennis Association has done little to boost the sport. Despite these challenges, Nagal has pushed through with immense dedication, carving out a place among the best in the world.
Reflecting on his year, Nagal expressed that while he was pleased with his performance, he didn't quite finish the season as he had hoped, due to injuries and scheduling issues. “The year was good even though I didn’t finish the way I wanted because of the injuries, scheduling etcetera, but it was a learning experience,” he shared. Known for his straightforward approach, Nagal also qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics, a feat that came through intense determination. After a disappointing early exit at the French Open, Nagal quickly shifted focus to Challenger events across Europe, boosting his rankings and securing a spot in the Olympic singles draw. Despite a less-than-ideal performance at the Games, Nagal remains focused on consistency in his career. “It is important I do well in the Grand Slams and win a few rounds,” he said in an interview at Roland Garros in July.
The path to success this season was physically taxing, involving a lot of travel and sacrifice. There were moments when Nagal considered withdrawing from the US Open due to a persistent back issue. However, following the advice of his mentor, Mahesh Bhupathi, Nagal underwent intensive rehab sessions in Dubai, three times a day, before flying to New York. He eventually lost in the first round, but his perseverance in playing all four Grand Slams—Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open—is a testament to his dedication, something few Indian singles players have achieved.
Nagal also acknowledged how playing in the Grand Slams helps with the financial demands of the sport. “Definitely, if you are playing the Slams regularly, it's a very big help towards your expenses,” he said, reflecting on how far he’s come. The road to success, however, hasn’t been without its financial struggles. Prior to the 2023 Asian Games, Nagal was nearly penniless, his bank balance almost empty while he trained in Germany. It was only through support from Gatorade, midway through the Asian Games, that he was able to stabilize his career. Nagal has also expressed his gratitude to his sponsors, including Indian Oil Corporation, Asics, Aryan Pumps, Bank of Baroda, SG Sports, and Yonex, for their crucial backing. Alongside financial support, his mentor Mahesh Bhupathi has played an instrumental role in shaping his career, offering guidance and wisdom.
Today, Nagal has the resources to employ top-tier coaches and get support from the Nensel Academy. He also benefitted from the guidance of Somdev Devvarman during a series of Challenger events in Chennai, Bengaluru, and New Delhi. Despite the pressure of defending ranking points early in 2025, Nagal remains focused on his growth. “I don’t think about defending points. My team always tells me to make points, not defend,” he stated. “I’m looking forward to the start next year.”
With his coach, physiotherapists, and trainers by his side, Nagal is set to continue his journey in 2025, maintaining his focus on consistent improvement. His story is one of grit, perseverance, and the unwavering belief that hard work can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
