Davis Cup: Spain takes 2-0 lead on opening day of tie

Ramanathan-Ramkumar
Ramanathan Ramkumar played a spirited game to take a set away from Feliciano in the first singles. Image Source: Xtra Time

New Delhi: As expected favorites Spain took a 2-0 lead on the opening day of the Davis Cup world group play off tie at the RK Khanna stadium on Friday. Both Feliciano Lopez and David Ferrer won their respective singles. Ramkumar Ramanathan gave a spirited performance against Lopez to win a set against Feliciano before Saketh Myneni had a taste of world class tennis as India trailed 0-2 after losing both the singles matches.

Ramkumar, gave a spirited display despite his limitations against a much-superior rival, fought his heart out in a 4-6 4-6 6-3 1-6 defeat to world number 26 Feliciano Lopez in the first match.

Lopez played in place of originally nominated Rafael Nadal, who had a wrist injury problem. The whole build up to the tie was focused on Nadal as tennis fans hoped to see the 14-time Grand Slam champion in action.

While Ramkumar’s spirited response to the challenge kept the 4000-strong fans excited, Myneni was blown away by world number 13 David Ferrer, the 2013 French Open finalist.

A big serve, his biggest weapon, was nowhere to be seen as Myneni, who qualified for the US Open, melted in a 1-6 2-6 1?6 defeat against his Spanish rival.

India need to win tomorrow’s doubles match to keep the tie alive against the five-time world champions Spain. It remains to be seen who Leander Paes plays with tomorrow.