Sweden made a strong statement on the opening day of the Davis Cup World Group-1 tie, securing a dominant 2-0 lead over India at The Royal Tennis Hall in Stockholm. The indoor hard courts provided the stage for a compelling display of tennis, with Swedish players Elias Ymer and Leo Borg proving too strong for their Indian counterparts.
Ymer, ranked 238th in the world, set the tone for the day with a convincing 6-4, 6-2 victory over Sriram Balaji. The young Swede exhibited impressive control and precision, showcasing his talent on the international stage.
In the second rubber, Leo Borg, ranked 603rd in the world, defied expectations and notched his maiden Davis Cup win. The 21-year-old son of tennis legend Bjorn Borg faced a tough challenge against India’s top-ranked player, Ramkumar Ramanathan, who is ranked 332nd. Despite a strong start from Ramanathan, Borg’s resilience and tactical prowess eventually prevailed. The Swede rallied from an early break to win the first set 6-3, and continued his momentum to secure the second set 6-4.
The match was played in front of a passionate home crowd, providing Borg with an extra boost of energy. Despite Ramanathan’s best efforts to stage a comeback, Borg remained composed and closed out the match with authority.
India now faces an uphill battle to salvage the tie. The absence of Sumit Nagal, ranked 73rd in the world, due to a back injury, and the absence of experienced doubles player Yuki Bhambri have significantly weakened the Indian team.
The upcoming doubles rubber on Sunday will be crucial for India’s chances. Ramkumar and Balaji will need to overcome a tough Swedish duo, Andre Goransson and Filip Bergevi, to keep their hopes alive. India will be looking to win their first rubber of the tie to make a fight of it on Sunday.
Historically, Sweden has enjoyed significant success against India in the Davis Cup, winning all five previous encounters. The Swedish team will be aiming to maintain their dominance and secure a decisive victory in this tie.
