Bengaluru, Dec 20 (NationPress) Dhakshineswar Suresh from India played a pivotal role in securing the World Tennis League 2025 (WTL) title for his team at the SM Krishna Stadium on Saturday. The Aussie Mavericks Kites leveraged momentum shifts to defeat the AOS Eagles 22-19, marking their inaugural WTL victory.

Entering Day 2, the Aussie Mavericks Kites were at the bottom of the standings. However, the unique format of the tournament, where every match is crucial, allowed them to rise and compete in the finals. In front of a packed audience, including cricket legends Kapil Dev and KL Rahul, the Aussie Mavericks Kites triumphed over the AOS Eagles with a score of 22-19, securing their first WTL championship.

During this tournament, Suresh emerged as a promising future star for Indian tennis. Standing tall at 6’5”, he showcased his skills by defeating renowned players like Daniil Medvedev, demonstrating that he belongs on the grand stage. The 25-year-old, currently a student at Wake Forest University and pursuing American college tennis, avenged his earlier group-stage loss to Sumit Nagal by winning the deciding set 7-6 in the men’s singles.

Earlier in the day, Marta Kostyuk provided the Aussie Mavericks Kites with a strong start by defeating Shrivalli Bhamidipaty 6-4. Although the AOS Eagles retaliated in the mixed doubles with a victory from Shrivalli and Monfils against Suresh and Kostyuk (6-3), the comeback was brief. Kyrgios, who has been an entertaining presence off the court, joined forces with Suresh to defeat Nagal and Monfils 6-3.

The event featured a star-studded lineup, including former US Open champion Medvedev, French star Monfils, showman Kyrgios, Denis Shapovalov, Paula Badosa, a semi-finalist at the 2025 Australian Open, and former World No. 3 Elina Svitolina. Also on the courts were Indian tennis icons Rohan Bopanna, a two-time Grand Slam champion, Yuki Bhambri, Nagal, and Olympian Ankita Raina.

This tournament created an opportunity for emerging Indian talents, including Suresh, Shrivalli, Sahaja Yamalapalli, and Maaya Rajeswaran Revathi, to interact with their idols. For nearly a week, India's next generation enjoyed the chance to practice with players who have excelled in the competitive professional circuit, potentially providing the inspiration they need to progress in their careers.

The WTL stands out as a unique mixed-team event, blending competitive spirit with a relaxed atmosphere. Its fast-paced four-set format enhances excitement and accessibility for fans.

Aussie Mavericks Kites defeated AOS Eagles 22-19

Marta Kostyuk (Aussie Mavericks Kites) defeated Shrivalli Bhamidipaty (AOS Eagles) 6-4

Shrivalli Bhamidipaty - Gael Monfils (AOS Eagles) defeated Dhakshineswar Suresh - Marta Kostyuk (Aussie Mavericks Kites) 6-3

Dhakshineswar Suresh - Nick Kyrgios (Aussie Mavericks Kites) defeated Sumit Nagal - Gael Monfils 6-3

Dhakshineswar Suresh (Aussie Mavericks Kites) defeated Sumit Nagal (AOS Eagles) 7-6