What are we doing as a nation to develop young players, asks Somdev

Somdev Devvarman. Pic/AFP

For the first time since 2017, no Indian has made it to the qualifiers of the Australian Open and former India tennis player Somdev Devvarman didn't hold himself while expressing his disappointment towards the decline of the sport in India.

"That's really unfortunate [lack of Indian participation]. I don't really remember the last time a singles male player was inside the top 300. What are we really doing as a nation to develop our young players? Even the professionals. What are we doing to support them and ensure they have a fair chance internationally, at the slams and tour events," Somdev remarked in a media interaction organised by Sony Sports Network recently.

Somdev, 37, whose ATP singles ranking of 62 in 2011 hasn't been bettered by any Indian since, pointed out how it is always three or four individuals who are expected to perform on the big stage and there isn't enough attention given to the fundamental problems that ail the whole system. "Some people can say that it is only a matter of time because Sumit [Nagal] is recovering from hip surgery, Ram [Ramkumar Ramanathan] has had his worst singles season since he's turned pro. Will he get better? Yes. Can Prajnesh [Gunneswaran] make a comeback? I don't know. But, why are we still dependent on these three for four characters? I think the next generation is closer [to the next level] than we think that they are. Manas Dhamne is 15 but he definitely has the capability to make a mark in pro tennis in a few years. I hope there are more young players of that level," he added.

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With Sania Mirza announcing her retirement last week, the world circuit will bid goodbye to another Indian great. Somdev heaped praise on how Sania's career has progressed and inspired thousands of youngsters in India. "She's been India's first superstar sportswoman. She has had an incredible career. I've seen her from the under-12s and under-14s, the juniors, and then she won junior Wimbledon 2003. By then her career just took off. Winning so many doubles titles, and mixed titles, she was at the top of her game for a long time. I understand that she has a beautiful son to look after but she will always be connected to the game and do great things in the future," Somdev signed off.