Sumit Nagal fumes after controversial loss, urges ATP to take action: 'I felt so hopeless and broken-hearted'

Indian tennis player Sumit Nagal has raised concerns over refereeing decisions in tennis after a heartbreaking defeat at the ATP 100 Poznan Challenger. The Indian star took to social media after his Round of 32 loss against lower-ranked Petr Brunclik and urged the ATP and ITF to bring changes that allow players to challenge decisions more effectively.

Nagal claimed that a crucial moment during the match affected the outcome and left him feeling helpless. According to the Indian player, he played a shot after a ball that he believed was clearly out, but neither the linesman nor the chair umpire made a call.

Nagal said he immediately raised his hand to appeal the decision, but the umpire told him she did not see it. He added that the chair umpire also refused to come down and check the mark, which frustrated him further.

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The Indian tennis player explained that under ATP rules, a player is allowed to hit one ball after the bounce and can still challenge the call if the decision did not affect the play. He felt he followed the rule by appealing immediately, but was not given the chance to defend his position.

Nagal expresses frustration

Taking to X, Nagal highlighted the difference in pressure between players and officials. He said players are often fined for mistakes, whether intentional or unintentional, while umpires do not face similar consequences despite their decisions having the ability to change the result of a match.

"Today I felt so hopeless and broken-hearted because I couldn’t even defend myself," Nagal wrote.

Nagal requested the ATP and ITF to use technology more effectively in tennis, saying matches in the modern era should not depend only on referee decisions. The Indian player also apologised to his fans and supporters after the defeat, saying he was disappointed with the situation but thanked them for their support.