BENGALURU: India’s newest Davis Cup hero Dhakshineswar Suresh says his dream run for the country is “just the beginning” as he prepares to step into full-fledged competition on the ATP Tour after completing his studies at a US university.
Pursuing communication studies at the Wake Forest University, the 25-year-old, whose family roots are in Madurai, will complete his degree in May this year.
In just two ties since making his debut in September 2025, Dhakshineswar boasts an impressive 4-0 record, with three of those wins coming against the Netherlands in Bengaluru last weekend. “It’s a long way to go. It’s just the beginning,” said Dhakshineswar, who matched Leander Paes’s feat of winning three matches in a single tie back in 2004 against Japan.
Following Dhakshineswar’s superlative show, India edged the Netherlands 3-2 to progress to the second round of the Davis Cup Qualifiers, where they will meet Korea in September.
“I’ll go back to the US to finish my studies, then come down in May and figure out my schedule.
Once that’s sorted, I’ll start getting into the Tour and prepare for the next Davis Cup,” he said.
On Dhakshinewar’s remarkable record, captain Rohit Rajpal said, “There aren’t many players who go 4-0 in Davis Cup rubbers, especially against quality opponents. He keeps coming up with big serves and big forehands. I hope he keeps enjoying his tennis and keeps performing.”
Dhakshineswar said representing India had brought out a different side of his game.
“It’s a different feeling when you’re playing for your country.
You’re not just playing for yourself, you’re playing for the whole nation. I played some different tennis in these matches and I’m really proud of that,” he said.
The tall Chennai-born player, who played marathon singles and doubles matches over two days, credited the support staff and team environment for his recovery and consistency.
“The physios and everyone took care of me really well. Team chemistry on and off the court makes a huge difference. Everyone trusting me helps me play good tennis,” he added.