PARIS, MAY 27 :India’s top-ranked singles player, Sumit Nagal, faced a tough first-round match against Russia’s 18th-seeded Karen Khachanov at Court 7, resulting in a straight-sets defeat.

Despite a valiant effort, Nagal succumbed 2-6, 0-6, 6-7 (5-7) to his Russian opponent at Roland Garros here on Monday.

Nagal, aiming to upset the big-hitting Khachanov, struggled to match his opponent’s power and range throughout the match. The turning point in the opening set came when Khachanov secured a break in game three, capitalising on Nagal’s missed opportunities and winning the set 6-2.

Rain briefly interrupted the match, halting play for 21 minutes, before the contest resumed. Khachanov continued his dominance, breaking Nagal once more in game seven to claim the set 6-0.

Despite facing a daunting deficit in the second set, Nagal fought back, showing resilience in the must-win third set.

Trailing 2-3 and later 3-5, Nagal staged an impressive comeback, winning three consecutive games to lead 6-5. However, Khachanov forced a tie-breaker, ultimately clinching the set 7-5 and sealing his victory.

Nagal’s defeat marks the end of his singles campaign in this tournament, while Khachanov advances to the next round. (UNI)