New Delhi: India made an impressive start to their Davis Cup 2025 campaign, taking a commanding 2-0 lead over Togo on the opening day of the World Group I Playoffs at the DLTA Complex in New Delhi. Mukund Sasikumar and Ramkumar Ramanathan each triumphed in straight sets in their singles matches, putting India within reach of a victory.
Mukund set the tone with an authoritative performance in the first match, defeating Liova Ajavon to give India a 1-0 advantage. Ramkumar then doubled the lead, securing a comfortable win over Thomas Setodji. The Indian fans at the DLTA Complex cheered passionately, waving tricolour flags and creating an electric atmosphere that spurred the players on.
In the opening match, Mukund played with confidence, taking the first game with ease. However, Ajavon quickly responded to level the score, setting up a tight contest. The momentum shifted in Mukund’s favor in the third game when he saved a crucial break point before breaking Ajavon’s serve. With the pressure on Ajavon, Mukund won the first set 6-2 and continued his dominance in the second, storming to a 4-0 lead before clinching the set 6-1 to win the match.
After a brief break, Ramkumar took to the court, quickly asserting his dominance over Setodji. His powerful forehands and aggressive play left Setodji struggling to stay in the match. Ramkumar cruised through the first set with a dominant 6-0 scoreline. Setodji fought back in the second set, claiming two games, but Ramkumar’s relentless consistency and precise serves sealed a 6-0, 6-2 victory, extending India’s lead.
India’s non-playing captain Rohit Rajpal expressed his satisfaction with the day’s results, praising the players for sticking to the game plan and delivering excellent tennis. He emphasized the need to stay focused as the tie was far from over and urged the team to finish strong on the following day.
“Both the boys played fantastic today. I’m very happy that they executed our plan so well,” Rajpal said. “It may have looked easy, but they followed through on our strategy perfectly. It wasn’t as easy as it seemed, but they made it look that way.”
Day two of the tie will see N Sriram Balaji and Rithvik Bollipalli take on Setodji and Padio Isak in the doubles match. Mukund and Ramkumar will return to the court for their remaining singles encounters, with Mukund set to face Setodji and Ramkumar taking on Ajavon.
The Davis Cup 2025 World Group I Playoffs are being broadcast live on Doordarshan Sports, and fans can also watch the matches in person at the DLTA Complex with free entry.
Day 1 Round Up
Mukund Sasikumar (IND) bt Liova Ajavon (TOG) 6-2, 6-1
Ramkumar Ramanathan (IND) bt Thomas Setodji (TOG) 6-0, 6-2
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