In September 2023, India’s top-ranked tennis player, Sumit Nagal, made headlines with his candid admission about his financial situation. Despite his achievements on the court, Sumit revealed that he had only 900 euros (approximately Rs 80,000) in his bank account. The news quickly went viral, and support for the 26-year-old athlete started flooding in. PepsiCo-owned Gatorade signed a deal with Sumit, and the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association offered one-time support of Rs 5 lakh. With his financial difficulties improving, Sumit is now fully focused on his game and aiming to finish the season strong.
In an exclusive interview with TimesofIndia.com, Sumit joined from Germany to discuss various topics such as his experience at the Tennis Premier League (TPL), his annual budget, and his tennis journey. Let’s dive into the excerpts:
Sumit Nagal: Balancing Finances and TPL Auction Success
Q: You were bought for a whopping Rs 18.5 lakh in the TPL auction. How does it feel to be the most expensive player in season 5?
A: It’s a proud feeling to be the highest-priced player in India, considering the caliber of players the TPL has brought in this year, such as Ernests Gulbis, Dennis Novak, and Lukas Rosol. The TPL is doing a fantastic job of popularizing tennis in India, and being sold at the highest price is a great honor.
Q: How does the TPL differ from the usual ATP tour?
A: The TPL and the regular tour are quite different. Playing in the league allows us to represent our country, particularly in my case, the Gujarat Panthers. However, the league is unlike our daily routine on the tour.
Q: Now that your financial situation has improved, what are your immediate goals?
A: Right now, my focus is solely on playing tennis matches. I expressed my concerns in September, but now I am fully committed to preparing for tournaments and finishing the season on a high note.
Corporate Support and Annual Budget
Q: How significant is the corporate support you recently received, and how does it benefit you?
A: Any financial assistance from companies is a tremendous help for Indian tennis players. We often lack financial support, as we have to cover expenses like coaches, travel, and accommodation throughout the year. Every form of support is greatly appreciated and can make a significant impact on an athlete’s career.
Q: Can you shed more light on your annual budget and the challenges you faced before this support?
A: Tennis is a unique sport where your budget depends on various factors. It starts with hiring a tennis coach, and if you have extra resources, you can involve a fitness trainer or a physiotherapist. Some players even travel with doctors. The amount you spend depends on your financial capability. I have been spending around Rs 1-1.5 crore annually.
Sponsors, Athletes, and Future Goals
Q: How crucial is the role of sponsors and corporate support for athletes, especially during challenging times?
A: Sponsors and corporate support play a pivotal role by providing financial assistance to athletes. This support allows us to travel with a team that includes a coach, fitness trainer, or physiotherapist. My personal preference is to have a coach and a physiotherapist, as maintaining fitness is crucial for me. Being able to cover these expenses is of utmost importance.
Q: What are your personal goals for the 2024 tennis season?
A: I am currently focused on the upcoming month of November, where I will compete in several Challenger tournaments. My aim is to finish as high as possible in the rankings, preferably within the top 100. This will provide a strong foundation for the next year when I begin defending my points.
Q: Which tournaments are you looking forward to playing in the coming months?
A: In November, I will be participating in tournaments in Helsinki, Sweden, and Spain. After a short break, I will then compete in the TPL, followed by pre-season preparation for the tournaments in Australia, including the Australian Open.
Q: Tennis is known for its demanding and solitary nature. What keeps you motivated and driven in this sport?
A: I am driven by the desire to achieve something for myself and my family. Coming from a humble background, reaching the pinnacle of tennis and playing on prestigious courts against players like Roger Federer and participating in the Olympics is already a remarkable accomplishment. These milestones motivate me to push myself further. Whenever I call my parents and hear their emotional reactions, it solidifies my determination. I live for those moments and continue striving to make a positive impact on my life and those around me.
As a role model for aspiring athletes in India, what message do you have for them?
A: My message to aspiring athletes in India is to never give up on their dreams. Stay committed, work hard, and be persistent. It may not always be easy, but with dedication and a strong support system, you can achieve greatness. Embrace challenges, set goals, and never lose sight of your passion.
Jessica Roberts serves up the latest in the world of tennis. With a love for the racket sport, she reports on tennis matches, player rankings, and Grand Slam events, ensuring readers stay informed about the tennis world.
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