India‑Korea Davis Cup Showdown: Desire Might Be the Deciding Factor, Says Sumit Nagal

Seoul, 17 September 2026 – The Davis Cup qualifier between India and South Korea is set to roll out on a court that’s turning increasingly sluggish as the day wears on. India’s No. 1 singles player Sumit Nagal, who draws the second‑rubber against veteran Hyeon Chung, insists that the battle will be less about tactics and more about who wants it more.

"By the time I step onto the court at four p.m., the surface will be really slow. There’s no magic weapon that will guarantee a win – it’s simply about desire on the day," Nagal told reporters after the draw ceremony. He added that his long‑standing familiarity with Chung – having grown up watching him, practiced together and even paired up in doubles – will make for an interesting duel.

Chung, who was chosen over Hong Seong‑chan for the second singles slot, echoed the sentiment. "I know Sumit well. He’s a solid baseliner, which means I’ll have to chase a lot of balls," he said, acknowledging the extra footwork the slow court will demand.

South Korea’s captain, Jong‑Sam Chung, backed his decision to field the former world No. 19, highlighting the 29‑year‑old’s experience as a potential game‑changer. "Hyeon brings the know‑how that can turn the tide for the team," the captain remarked.

On the opposite side, Korean top‑ranked player Kwon Soon‑woo, who opens the tie against India’s Dhakshineswar Suresh, remained unfazed by surface changes. "I’ve played on many types of courts across the globe, so adapting isn’t an issue for me," he said confidently.

The doubles line‑up also saw a late shuffle. After Yuki Bhambri’s injury, N Sriram Balaji will team up with Niki Poonacha against the Korean pair of Uisung Park and Jisung Nam. Captain Rohit Rajpal explained the switch as a pragmatic response to the slow Seoul conditions, noting that Poonacha’s style meshes better with the current bounce.

Nam, known for his aggressive net play, insisted he won’t abandon his tactics despite the court’s pace. "Slow conditions don’t change my game; I’ll still look to finish points at the net," he affirmed.

Balaji, meanwhile, expressed confidence in the newly‑formed partnership. "Choosing the right partner is crucial. Poonacha complements my serve, and we’ve been practicing together for years – we’re ready," he said.

India’s captain Rajpal declined to pick a single decisive match, but stressed the importance of a strong start. "We’re hoping Dhakshineswar gives us momentum early on. A good opening can set the tone for the whole tie," he added.

As the sun dips and the court slows further, the upcoming singles and doubles rubbers promise a blend of skill, strategy and, perhaps most importantly, sheer willpower.