India’s Dhakshineswar Suresh played a pivotal role in securing the World Tennis League 2025 (WTL) title for the Aussie Mavericks Kites at the SM Krishna Stadium on Saturday. The team triumphed over the AOS Eagles with a final score of 22-19, marking their first WTL championship.
A Remarkable Comeback
At the conclusion of Day 2, the Aussie Mavericks Kites found themselves at the bottom of the table. However, the innovative tournament format, where every match holds significance, allowed them to rise in the rankings and secure a spot in the finals. In front of a packed crowd that included cricket legends such as Kapil Dev and KL Rahul, the Mavericks pulled off an impressive victory against the AOS Eagles.
Suresh’s Stellar Performance
Dhakshineswar Suresh emerged as a promising talent during this edition of WTL. The 6’5″ ace defeated top-tier players, including Daniil Medvedev, demonstrating that he is ready for the big stage. At just 25 years old and a student at Wake Forest University, Suresh avenged his earlier group-stage defeat to Sumit Nagal with a nail-biting win in the final men’s singles match, wrapping it up 7-6.
The Final’s Highlights
The final began with Marta Kostyuk giving the Aussie Mavericks Kites a solid start by defeating Shrivalli Bhamidipaty 6-4. The AOS Eagles, who entered the final unbeaten, fought back in the mixed doubles match, where Shrivalli and Gael Monfils overcame Suresh and Kostyuk 6-3. However, the Mavericks soon regained control as Kyrgios joined forces with Suresh to defeat Nagal and Monfils 6-3.
A Star-Studded Event
The tournament showcased a stellar lineup, featuring former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev, the flamboyant Gael Monfils, and showman Nick Kyrgios, alongside Denis Shapovalov, 2025 Australian Open semi-finalist Paula Badosa, and former World No. 3 Elina Svitolina. Indian veterans Rohan Bopanna, who became the oldest World No. 1 in doubles last year, Yuki Bhambri, Nagal, and Olympian Ankita Raina also participated.
Nurturing Young Talent
The WTL provided a fantastic platform for budding Indian talents like Suresh, Shrivalli, Sahaja Yamalapalli, and Maaya Rajeswaran Revathi, allowing them to interact with their illustrious heroes. For nearly a week, India’s Next Gen had the opportunity to team up and practice with the stars of the professional circuit, a valuable experience that could serve as inspiration for their future in the sport.
A Unique Format
As a one-of-a-kind mixed-team event, the WTL presents a celebration of sport where players remain competitive yet more relaxed. The fast-paced, four-set format adds to the excitement, making it more engaging and accessible for fans.
Match Summary:
- Aussie Mavericks Kites bt AOS Eagles 22-19
- Marta Kostyuk (Aussie Mavericks Kites) bt Shrivalli Bhamidipaty (AOS Eagles) 6-4
- Shrivalli Bhamidipaty-Gael Monfils (AOS Eagles) bt Dhakshineswar Suresh-Marta Kostyuk (Aussie Mavericks Kites) 6-3
- Dhakshineswar Suresh-Nick Kyrgios (Aussie Mavericks Kites) bt Sumit Nagal-Gael Monfils 6-3
- Dhakshineswar Suresh (Aussie Mavericks Kites) bt Sumit Nagal (AOS Eagles) 7-6