For Vijay Sundar Prashanth, 2015 has been a revealing year, for till then he was “self-satisfied reaching four finals of Futures”.
But, after qualifying for the Aircel Chennai Open, the 28-year-old gained in confidence.
He went on to win his maiden Futures in Tiruchi last week and on Saturday, in the MCC-S.R. Subramaniam Memorial International Tennis Federation men’s Futures tournament, Prashanth added one more.
Fighting an upset stomach, the Indian, seeded fourth, dug deep to overcome Ivan Gakhov of Russia, the fifth seed, 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(6) in the summit clash in two hours and 15 minutes.
Prashanth became richer by $1300 and 18 ITF points, while Gakhov had to be content with $900 and 10 points.
“I would like to thank my parents, friends and well-wishers. Earlier, I wasn’t pushing myself hard, and I didn’t have proper guidance.
“With coach Mahendran, who pushed me hard, my game gradually improved,” said Prashanth.
Medical timeoutWith the match tied at one set apiece, Prashanth took a medical timeout before the start of the decider for an upset tummy.
When he returned, he didn’t move as quickly as he did in the previous two sets. It looked like he would give up.
Both players managed to hold their serves and the match entered the tie-breaker. Once Prashanth took a 4-3 lead, the cheers from his camp grew louder.
Encouraged by that, he finished the next point with a wonderful volley and soon took a 6-4 lead. Gakhov saved two match points, but missed a forehand on Prashanth’s serve to give the Indian his second title.
“It has been two great weeks. First, I reached the semifinals in Tiruchi, and the final now. I am happy,” said Gakhov.
The result:
Final: Vijay Sundar Prashanth (Ind) bt Ivan Gakhov (Rus) 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(6).
