Sumit Nagal, an Indian tennis star, has advanced to the main draw of the BNP Paribas Open as a ‘lucky loser’ after Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal withdrew from the event due to a lack of readiness to compete at the highest level. The 26-year-old Nagal had lost in the second round of the qualifying tournament but received a big break because he was the highest-ranked player in the draw. He is currently ranked 101st in the ATP rankings and was eligible to proceed in the event of a last-minute main draw withdrawal.
The Indian will face Milos Raonic of Canada, a 2016 Wimbledon finalist with protected rankings, early on Friday. Players who have been injured for at least six months are eligible for a protected ranking, which is an average of their ranking during the first three months of injury.
“Excited for my ATP Masters 1000 debut at Indian Wells,” Nagal wrote on X.
Nadal, 37, previously announced his withdrawal in a statement. The Spaniard has suffered from injuries and had hip surgery last season.
“It is with great sadness that I must withdraw from this incredible tournament. “Everyone knows how much I love this place and how much I enjoy playing here at Indian Wells,” he said.
“I’ve been working hard and practising, and as you know, I took a test this weekend, but I don’t feel prepared to play at the highest level at such an important event.
“It’s not an easy decision, in fact, but I can’t lie to myself or the thousands of fans. I’ll miss you all, and I’m confident the tournament will be a huge success,” he said.
Tommy Haas, tournament director, expressed disappointment with Nadal’s decision to withdraw.
“We are disappointed that Rafa is unable to play in the BNP Paribas Open, but we wish him continued healing and hope he can be back in action again soon,” Haas said in a statement.
