Bengaluru, Jan 7 (UNI) India teenager Dhakshineswar Suresh stormed into the Bengaluru Open quarterfinals with a thrilling 6-3, 1-6, 7-6 victory over France’s Felix Balshaw in a pulsating three-set encounter at Centre Court.
The match had it all—momentum swings, booming serves, and tense battles of nerve.
Dhakshineswar set the tone early, dominating the first set 6-3. His second serve was rock-solid, helping him win 75% of his service points and save both break points he faced.
Sharp at the net, he claimed five of seven points and unleashed 21 winners against just 11 unforced errors. Observers praised the teenager’s confidence and tactical awareness, noting that every shot seemed carefully plotted.
The decider was nothing short of dramatic. Both players fired powerful serves, each point a tense mini-battle.
Dhakshineswar stayed calm under pressure, winning 63 per cent of his service points, converting half of his break points, and producing 17 winners. Balshaw pushed relentlessly, but Dhakshineswar’s precision, patience, and mental toughness carried him over the line, edging the set—and the match—51% to 49% in total points.
Over the course of the match, Dhakshineswar recorded 11 aces, won 62% of his service points, and saved 13 of 16 break points. He hit 29 winners while keeping unforced errors nearly balanced at 28. On returns, he grabbed 31% of points and converted 40% of break opportunities. For a player starting his Year-to-Date campaign with zero stats, the win was a statement of intent.
Fans and analysts lauded Dhakshineswar’s poise under pressure, aggressive shot-making, and tactical intelligence. Balshaw’s powerful serving and relentless fight ensured the match stayed highly competitive, delivering a contest that will be remembered for its intensity and drama.
