Ribhav Saroha Shines in U-16 Tennis Championship with Strong Start

Exciting Matches Kick Off at Fenesta Open National Tennis Championships

New Delhi, October 13: After recently securing the U-18 boys' singles title, top seed Ribhav Saroha commenced his U-16 journey with a solid 6-4, 6-2 win against Raghav Sarode. Meanwhile, third seed Paranjay Siwach triumphed over Bhavik with a decisive 6-1, 6-1 score at the Fenesta Open National Tennis Championships.

The U-16 and U-14 tournaments began on Monday at the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association (DLTA) Complex, featuring the nation’s top junior talents as they resumed competition in the second week of this prestigious championship.

Following his U-18 victory, Saroha expressed satisfaction with his first-round performance but emphasized the importance of staying focused as he aims for another title. “My confidence is high. Performing well in U-18s boosts my confidence for U-16s too. Raghav is a good friend, and while the first set was competitive, I managed to secure the second set more comfortably,” Saroha remarked.

When asked about his goal of clinching a second title in consecutive weeks, he stated, “I’m putting in a lot of effort to keep my form strong for the U-16 title. The competition at Fenesta Open is tough, and I need to stay sharp.”

Siwach also showcased his skills, advancing past Bhavik in straight sets. Reflecting on his match, he noted, “My opponent started strong, but I maintained my focus and found my rhythm.”

Due to heavy morning rain, play was delayed by nearly four hours, prompting organizers to extend the day’s schedule to compensate for lost time, with additional matches planned for Tuesday.

Several matches from Monday will be rescheduled to Tuesday as the rain disrupted the planned timetable at the DLTA Complex.

In addition to Saroha and Siwach, eighth seed Vivaan Mirdha defeated Mahijith Kaura 6-1, 6-2, while fifth seed Divey Malik overcame Sai Kanithi with a score of 7-6(3), 6-3. Other notable results included seventh seed Jeevith Sathish beating Charchit Boora 6-4, 6-2, and 12th seed Monodip Dey winning against Heet Kandoriya 6-4, 6-0.

In the girls' U-16 singles, Rabiah Dullet triumphed over Pun Pratiksha 7-5, 6-1, while Pooja Nagaraj dominated Aayushri Tarange with a 6-1, 6-1 victory. Sarithra Entoori edged past Japji Badohal in a tightly contested match, winning 7-6(3), 6-4.

Unnathi Muralidhar advanced with a 6-3, 6-3 win over Janhavi Sawant, and Bawyasri Asr defeated Aashi Shamshery 6-2, 6-1. Shravee Deore also progressed, overcoming Anjhalle Meka 6-2, 6-4.

As the tournament continues, the excitement builds with many matches still in progress.