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Xtra Time Web Desk: India's Sumit Nagal showcased a spirited performance as he stunned No 31 seed Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan to cruise into the second round of Australian Open on Tuesday. Nagal won 6-4, 6-2 and 7-6(7-5). This victory marked a significant achievement for Nagal who is ranked 122 in the world now, as he becomes the first Indian since Ramesh Krishnan to beat a seeded player at a Grand Slam event in 1989.

Nagal overcame a series of injuries that had previously seen him outside the top 500. He demonstrated his resilience and form during the qualifying rounds. He didn't drop a set in the process, reaching the main draw for the fourth time in his career.

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Nagal will take on the winner of the match between Mackenzie McDonald and Shang Juncheng in the second round.

Having received a singles wildcard at the 2021 Australian Open, Nagal became the last Indian to play in the singles main draw of a Grand Slam before his recent success. His notable performance at the 2020 US Open, where he won a main draw match, further solidified his position as a rising star in Indian tennis.

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