All eyes on Yuki Bhambri, Ramkumar Ramanathan at Australian Open qualifiers

India will closely monitor Yuki Bhambri’s return to competitive tennis at the Australian Open Qualifiers, following a three-year hiatus due to a persistent knee issue. Despite setbacks, the 29-year-old player from Delhi, who showcased his readiness in a close match against Aljaz Bedene in March, is geared up for the upcoming season. Bhambri recently resumed competition in November, participating in Challenger and ITF circuits, securing a doubles title with Saketh Myneni in Gurugram. Although he faced an early exit with partner Michael Venus in the ATP event in Melbourne, his draw against Portugal’s Joao Domingues, ranked 248, suggests a favorable start for Bhambri. A strong performance at Melbourne Park could set the tone for his 2022 season.

On the other hand, Ramkumar Ramanathan, buoyed by his first ATP Tour title win alongside Rohan Bopanna in Adelaide and a singles Challenger title in Manama, Bahrain, is aiming to break his Grand Slam singles main draw entry drought. In 22 attempts, he hasn’t yet succeeded, but with a positive run leading to the Australian Open, he is determined to change that. The Indian player, set to face Italian Gian Moroni, ranked 197, relies on his powerful serve, fighting spirit, and a well-developed serve-and-volley game. Reflecting on his recent doubles victory, Ramkumar expressed gratitude and enthusiasm, emphasizing the invaluable learning experience gained from Bopanna and coach Scott Davidoff.

Prajnesh Gunneswaran, another Indian in the qualifying rounds, will kick off his campaign against Colombian Daniel Galan, positioned almost 100 places above him at 120. In the women’s singles, Ankita Raina is scheduled to face Ukraine’s Lesia Tsurenko, ranked 118. The performances of these Indian players in the Australian Open qualifiers are anticipated with keen interest, as they seek to make an impact in the early stages of the 2022 season.