Prajwal, Adil, Suraj get wildcards at Bengaluru Open

Promising youngsters SD Prajwal Dev, Adil Kalyanpur and Suraj Prabodh, all from Karnataka have been given wildcards in into the main draw of the Bengaluru Open a premium event on the ATP Challenger circuit which begins at the KSLTA on Monday.

Prajwal who hails from Mysore predominantly plays the doubles and was ranked as high 517 last year as he won the Harare Challenger apart from making four finals. He hopes to make the best out of the opportunity. “I thank the KSLTA and AITA for having given me the wild card. I hope to convert this opportunity into garnering ATP points,” said the 23-year-old.

Prajwal’s City-mate and doubles partner Adil initially trained under former Indian Davis Cupper Vishaal Uppal before a stint at Rafael Nadal’s Academy and currently trains at Rohan Bopanna’s Academy in Bengaluru. Having lost the finals in the Nonthaburi Challengers in Thailand in December, Adil is back to his wonted form. “Thanks to KSLTA and AITA, I have got a chance to chase my dream of getting a better ranking and what better than getting to play in your backyard,” said the 20-year-old.

Suraj Prabodh who was once ranked 650 in 2018, has dropped his rankings considerably and is looking to resurrect his ranking. “I hope to make good use of the wildcard and would like to thank KSLTA and AITA for their support,” said the 25-year-old from Bengaluru.

Meanwhile the draw ceremony along with the event launch will be held later today.

Pic: A combo picture of Adil Kalyanpur (right) and SD Prajwal going through their paces at the KSLTA Stadium on Saturday. Pic credit: Deepthi Indukuri