India’s Sumit Nagal’s US Open campaign ended in the qualifying round after he lost in straight sets to France’s Arthur Gea in New York.The top-seeded Frenchman won 6-3, 7-6(4) to move into the second round, while Nagal’s wait for another Grand Slam main-draw appearance continues.
Nagal’s Grand Slam struggle continues
The defeat means Nagal has now missed out on the main draw at seven consecutive Grand Slam tournaments. His last appearance in a major main draw came at the 2025 Australian Open, where he was beaten in the opening round.Against Gea, Nagal stayed competitive, particularly in the second set, but could not make the most of the important points. Gea held his nerve in the tiebreak to complete the victory and end the Indian’s qualifying run.Nagal’s best result this season came on clay when he won the Challenger tournament in Targu Mures, Romania. However, his US Open exit will be another setback as he continues to work his way back towards the biggest stages of tennis.
Focus shifts to Davis Cup
With his US Open campaign over, Nagal will now turn his attention to India’s important Davis Cup tie against South Korea.The contest carries significant importance, with a place in the eight-team Davis Cup Finals at stake. Nagal will be hoping to put the disappointment in New York behind him and contribute to India’s push for a place among the elite teams in the competition.For now, the immediate goal remains clear: regain consistency, build momentum and find a route back into Grand Slam main draws.
