French Open 2021 Qualifiers: Ramkumar Ramanathan, Ankita Raina advance into the second round, Prajnesh Gunneswaran crashes out

It was a busy day for Indians in the first round of the French Open qualifiers on Tuesday. Ramkumar Ramanathan, Ankita Raina progressed into the second round, whereas, Prajnesh Gunneswaran was the only Indian to suffer a defeat.

Overall, it was a good day for the Indians in Paris, as two players booked their spots in the second round of teh qualifying. Sumit Nagal, India’s biggest hope at the French Open will take to the court, later in the day.

Prajnesh Gunneswaran was defeated by Oscar Otte in straight sets, by a score-line of 6-2, 6-2. Ankita Raina had to toil hard to win her first round match, as she had to come back from a set down to defeat Arina Rodionova. The Indian won 3-6, 6-1, 6-4 and will face Greet Minnen in the second round on Wednesday.

Ramkumar Ramanathan produces a comeback win

Ramkumar Ramanathan was another Indian who had to dip deep on Tuesday. He won in three sets against the American, Michael Mmoh to book a place in the second round. The 26-year old came back from a set down to win 2-6, 7-6, 6-3. Next up for him is a clash against the experienced Uzbek, Denis Istomin in the second round.

Ramkumar Ramanathan held his nerve when it mattered the most, as the Indian won 88 points, compared to his opponent’s tally of 90 points. His serve was impressive on Tuesday, as he managed to win 80% of his points on first serve. He could have closed the match out earlier, as he could manage to convert just one out of his six break point opportunities.

On the other hand, Ankita Raina made the most of her break point opportunities against Rodionova, as she converted seven of the nine chances. The Australian served 10 double faults during the game, which handed Raina a vital foothold in the match.

Also Read: French Open 2021: Main Draw Timings, Schedule & Where to Watch Draw Ceremony