The ITF Junior Tennis Tournament at the historic Deccan Gymkhana in Pune commenced with an exciting series of matches in the under-18 boys and girls categories. With rising stars from across the globe participating, the event showcased the intensity and talent of junior tennis. The opening day was marked by thrilling upsets, dominant performances, and a few unfortunate retirements, setting the stage for a competitive week ahead.
Snigdha Kanta’s Stunning Upset
In one of the most talked-about matches of the day, India’s Snigdha Kanta delivered a commanding performance to defeat third seed Sara Oliveriusova from the Czech Republic. Kanta dominated the game with precise strokes and an aggressive approach, winning 6-1, 6-4 in the first round of the girls’ singles. Her victory not only displayed her exceptional form but also signaled her intent to make a deep run in the tournament.
Boys’ Section: Shanker Heisnam Advances
The boys’ section saw another notable result as Shanker Heisnam advanced past fourth seed Roshan Santhosh. The match ended prematurely when Santhosh retired midway through the second set. Heisnam had already gained the upper hand, leading 6-3, 3-0 at the time of retirement. His consistent play and composed demeanor were crucial in securing his spot in the next round.
Other Key Matches in the Boys’ Category
1. Samarth Sahita vs. Kunanan Pantaratorn (Thailand)
- Result: Sahita won 7-6(5), 6-3
In a closely contested match, Samarth Sahita showcased resilience by taking the first set in a tiebreak and maintaining his momentum to close out the match.
2. Vihaan Reddy (USA) vs. Om Patel
- Result: Reddy won 6-3, 6-2
Representing the USA, Reddy displayed superior technique and control, comfortably defeating Om Patel in straight sets.
3. Egor Shcherbakov vs. Tavish Pahwa
- Result: Shcherbakov won 7-5, 6-2
The match began with a competitive first set, but Shcherbakov capitalized on Pahwa’s errors to take the second set decisively.
4. Cody Atkinson (New Zealand) vs. Swaraaj Dhamdhere
- Result: Atkinson won 6-3, 6-3
Atkinson’s aggressive baseline game proved too much for Dhamdhere, as the New Zealander advanced with a straight-sets victory.
5. Izyan Ahmad (USA) vs. Pratyaksh
- Result: Ahmad won 6-3, 6-3
Ahmad’s consistent groundstrokes and sharp net play helped him overpower his opponent.
6. Sehaj Singh Pawar vs. Taisei Hata (Japan)
- Result: Pawar won 6-4, 6-1
Pawar delivered a commanding performance, outpacing Hata with his speed and shot placement.
7. Aarjun Pandit vs. Maximus Zavier Wong (Singapore)
- Result: Pandit won 7-5, 6-4
Pandit battled hard to edge out Wong in a closely contested match, showcasing mental toughness and tactical awareness.
8. Snir Morag (Israel) vs. Sriniketh Kannan
- Result: Morag won 6-3, 2-1 (retired)
Kannan was forced to retire due to injury, allowing Morag to advance.
9. Kandhavel Mahalingam vs. Kanata Ozaki (Japan)
- Result: Mahalingam won 7-6(3), 6-2
Mahalingam’s decisive performance in the tiebreak set the tone for a comfortable second set victory.
10. Alan Aiukhanov vs. Aradhya Kshitij
- Result: Aiukhanov won 6-2, 6-4
Aiukhanov dominated with his power-packed serves and aggressive returns, sealing a straight-sets win.
Girls’ Section: Key Matches and Performances
1. Alexandra Bayuschenko (Belarus) vs. Prisha Shinde
- Result: Bayuschenko won 6-4, 1-6, 6-4
In a three-set thriller, Bayuschenko rebounded after losing the second set to clinch a hard-fought victory.
2. Parthsarthi Mundhe vs. Priyanka Rana (USA)
- Result: Mundhe won 7-6(2), 7-5
Mundhe’s composure during crucial moments in the match helped her secure a straight-sets win in a tightly contested game.
3. Yasaman Yazdani (Iran) vs. Anvi Punaganti
- Result: Yazdani won 6-2, 6-3
Yazdani’s consistent baseline play and strategic shot selection proved too strong for Punaganti.
4. Yuzuha Negishi (Japan) vs. Harsha Oruganti
- Result: Negishi won 6-1, 6-2
Negishi’s dominant performance showcased her finesse and athleticism, allowing her to cruise into the next round.
5. Laxmisiri Dandu vs. Diya Ramesh
- Result: Dandu won 6-2, 6-4
Dandu capitalized on her opponent’s unforced errors to secure a comfortable victory.
6. Aishwarya Jadhav vs. Malika Amirgalieva (Kazakhstan)
- Result: Jadhav won 7-6(3), 6-4
Jadhav’s grit and determination helped her edge past Amirgalieva in a nail-biting encounter.
7. Nainika Bendram vs. Riya Sachdeva
- Result: Bendram won 6-2, 6-0
Bendram dominated the match with her powerful serves and precise shot-making.
8. Sai Janvi vs. Rio Wakayama (Japan)
- Result: Janvi won 6-2, 6-7(2), 6-4
Janvi overcame a second-set slump to close out the match in a competitive third set, showcasing her mental toughness.
9. Cocomi Saito (Japan) vs. Aakruti Sonkusare
- Result: Saito won 6-3, 6-2
Saito’s aggressive approach and consistent play helped her defeat Sonkusare in straight sets.
Day 1 Takeaways
- Upsets Set the Tone
The victories of unseeded players like Snigdha Kanta and Shanker Heisnam against higher-ranked opponents highlighted the unpredictability and excitement of junior tennis. - Global Participation
Players from countries like Japan, USA, Belarus, and Israel showcased the tournament’s international appeal and the diversity of talent in junior tennis. - Promising Indian Talent
Indian players like Kanta, Jadhav, and Mundhe made their presence felt, signaling a bright future for Indian tennis at the junior level. - Fitness and Conditioning
The retirements of Sriniketh Kannan and Roshan Santhosh emphasized the importance of physical conditioning in competitive tennis.
Looking Ahead
As the tournament progresses, the competition is expected to intensify with higher stakes in the subsequent rounds. With players eager to make their mark on the international stage, the ITF Junior Tennis Tournament at Deccan Gymkhana promises more thrilling encounters and standout performances.
Conclusion
The first day of the ITF Junior Tennis Tournament delivered high-quality tennis and exciting results, setting the stage for an action-packed week. Rising stars like Snigdha Kanta and Shanker Heisnam have already captured the spotlight with their impressive victories. As the tournament unfolds, fans can expect more drama, determination, and displays of skill from these young athletes vying for glory on the global stage.
