ASB Classic 2025: Sumit Nagal exits in first round after losing to 20-year-old Alex Michelsen

Tennis star Sumit Nagal's Auckland Open 2025 campaign has come to an end despite taking the lead in the first set of the game, as he fell into a trap to Alex Michelsen by 6-7, 6-4, 6-2 in the first round of the game, which took place on January 6. The Indian superstar showed resilience in the first set of the game, saving six points before eventually securing a win in it. However, Michelsen, who is currently ranked 41 in the world, staged an impressive comeback to level the thrilling encounter.

The third set belonged entirely to the American, who unleashed a series of well-placed shots, earning even Nagal's admiration on a plethora of the occasion. However, the Indian star managed to find a way to pull back a game to make it 2-3 in the decider game. The opponent player maintained his dominance and closed out the game and denied Nagal, ranked number 96 in the world, any chance of a comeback in the game.

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Meanwhile, Sumit Nagal was earlier qualified for the main draw at the ASB Classic in Auckland. Team India's top player defeated Adrian Mannarino of France in the second round of the qualifier game before defeating Alexander Klintcharov in the opening set of the game.

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Sumit Nagal got that speed ⚡pic.twitter.com/lgciYioeAi

— The Khel India (@TheKhelIndia) January 6, 2025

Michelsen vs Nagal: Preview

The American talent arrives in Auckland on the back of an unfortunate Round of 16 exit he suffered at the season-opening Brisbane International. Despite showcasing stellar athleticism in the event’s first round, Michelsen was unable to script a similar result against Aussie Jordan Thompson as he succumbed to the latter in straight sets.

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Sumit Nagal's reaction after the upset win over former World No.17 Adrian Mannarino 😍 pic.twitter.com/QBfmyoI8x1

— Indian Tennis Daily (ITD) (@IndTennisDaily) January 5, 2025

Michelsen vs Nagal: Head-to-Head

Both players, although active on the circuit for quite some time now, never locked horns for an on-court clash on the tour. As a result, their head-to-head tally is locked at 0-0, with their maiden encounter slated for a showcase at the ASB Classic in Auckland.

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