Olympian Sriram Balaji showcased his remarkable fitness and singles prowess as he secured the title at the 74th Inter-Services Tennis Championship held at the DLTA Complex in New Delhi. The event, marked by intense competition, culminated in Balaji’s decisive victory over second-seed Manish Ganesh in the final. Balaji’s triumph not only underscored his dominance in singles but also marked a moment of redemption for the Indian Army team after losing the team championship final to the Indian Navy earlier in the tournament.
Road to the Title
Balaji, known primarily as a top doubles player with an impressive run to the third round of the French Open earlier this year, proved his mettle in the singles format throughout the tournament. Dropping just 16 games in four matches, Balaji demonstrated a level of consistency and physical fitness that set him apart from the competition.
In the semifinals, Balaji advanced with a walkover as former National champion Mohit Mayur withdrew due to undisclosed reasons. This set up a highly anticipated final clash against Suraj Prabodh, who had defeated second-seed Manish Ganesh in the other semifinal.
The Final: A Commanding Performance
In the championship match, Balaji asserted his dominance from the outset, defeating Suraj Prabodh in straight sets with a scoreline of 6-3, 6-3. His powerful serve, sharp groundstrokes, and tactical awareness left little room for Prabodh to stage a comeback. Balaji’s ability to control the game and maintain a high level of intensity ensured a comfortable win.
This victory not only secured Balaji the individual title but also reaffirmed his status as one of the most versatile and enduring players in Indian tennis.
Redemption for the Army Team
For the Indian Army team, Balaji’s victory was a moment of redemption after their earlier loss to the Indian Navy in the team championship final. While the team championship result highlighted the depth of talent across services, Balaji’s individual performance served as a testament to the Army’s resilience and determination to excel.
Key Highlights of the Tournament
- Balaji’s Dominance: Dropped only 16 games in four matches, highlighting his supreme fitness and tactical acumen.
- Walkover in Semifinals: Advanced to the final after Mohit Mayur’s withdrawal in the semifinals.
- Final Match Result: Defeated Suraj Prabodh 6-3, 6-3 to secure the title.
- Suraj Prabodh’s Effort: Reached the final after a commanding semifinal performance against Manish Ganesh, who retired due to injury.
A Year of Success for Balaji
Balaji’s victory at the Inter-Services Championship adds to an already successful year for the Olympian. His run to the third round of the French Open in doubles earlier this year was a significant milestone, highlighting his capabilities on the international stage. This singles triumph further cements his position as a formidable force in Indian tennis, showcasing his ability to excel across formats.
Looking Ahead
Balaji’s performance at the championship sets the tone for his upcoming tournaments. As he continues to balance his singles and doubles career, his fitness and adaptability remain key assets. His success also serves as an inspiration for young players in the services and beyond, emphasizing the importance of resilience, versatility, and dedication in achieving excellence.
Conclusion
The 74th Inter-Services Tennis Championship will be remembered for Sriram Balaji’s exceptional performance, which not only secured him the title but also redeemed the Indian Army’s campaign. His commanding victory in the final and consistent display throughout the tournament highlight his enduring fitness and skill as one of India’s leading tennis players. As Balaji continues to add accolades to his illustrious career, his journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country.
