The Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) under the Sports Authority of India (SAI) has sanctioned financial support for Indian tennis players Yuki Bhambri and Sumit Nagal. Additionally, emerging player Dhakshineswar Suresh has been recommended for inclusion in the Target Asian Games Group (TAGG). The assistance aims to aid their preparations for upcoming events like the Asian Games 2026 and the Davis Cup 2026 qualifiers.
For Yuki Bhambri, a financial package of Rs 28.89 lakh has been approved to cover his training and competition expenses from February to September 2026. This support will encompass his participation in ATP and Grand Slam competitions over 33 weeks, along with training on the professional circuit. Bhambri, currently ranked World No. 23 in doubles and Asian No. 1, has shown strong international performances.
Sumit Nagal, India’s top-ranked singles player, will receive financial aid amounting to Rs 27.51 lakh for his international training and competition activities from March to October 2026. His schedule includes various prestigious tournaments like ATP Tour events, Grand Slams, and the Davis Cup. Nagal, ranked World No. 282, has displayed promising talent and recently made significant strides in his career.
Moreover, the MOC has recommended coaching support for Sumit Nagal through the Nensel Academy Tennis School to enhance his performance during the crucial training period. In a significant move, rising talent Dhakshineswar Suresh has been added to the TAGG due to his potential as a strong singles and doubles player for India. With notable wins against top-ranked players, Dhakshineswar has proven his ability to compete at higher levels.
The inclusion of Dhakshineswar Suresh brings the total number of supported tennis players under the TAGG scheme to 12. This initiative, similar to the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), aims to provide financial assistance to medal prospects for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
