Jay Clarke, Sumit Nagal Lead Star-Studded Field at Delhi Open 2026

The Delhi Open ATP Challenger tournament returns from February 16-22, featuring a strong international field led by Britain's Jay Clarke. India's top-ranked singles player, Sumit Nagal, is the main draw's lone direct Indian entry and will be the focal point for home fans. The event boasts a significant Asian presence with players like Japan's Rei Sakamoto and Kazakhstan's Beibit Zhukayev. DLTA President Rohit Rajpal emphasized the tournament's role in bridging Indian talent with top-tier international competition.

Key Points: Delhi Open 2026: Clarke, Nagal Headline ATP Challenger Event

  • Jay Clarke leads overseas field
  • Sumit Nagal headlines Indian challenge
  • Strong Asian presence with Sakamoto, Noguchi, Zhukayev
  • Event runs Feb 16-22 at DLTA
  • Manas Dhamne & Karan Singh in qualifiers
2 min read

Clarke heads overseas field, Nagal leads Indian charge at Delhi Open

ATP Challenger returns to Delhi with Jay Clarke and Sumit Nagal leading the international and Indian charge. Tournament runs Feb 16-22 at DLTA.

"The Delhi Open has firmly established itself as one of the most competitive and professionally run Challenger events in the region. - Rohit Rajpal"

New Delhi, February 7

Great Britain's Jay Clarke will spearhead a strong overseas contingent at the Delhi Open 2026, while Sumit Nagal headlines the Indian challenge as the ATP Challenger tournament returns to the national capital from February 16 to 22 at the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association Complex, New Delhi, according to a release.

Nagal, India's top-ranked singles player and the lone Indian to gain direct entry into the singles main draw, will be a key attraction for home fans.

A regular on the Challenger circuit, Nagal has consistently competed at the highest level and will be keen to take advantage of familiar conditions in New Delhi.

Over the years, the tournament has earned a reputation for strong fields and high-quality competition, attracting players on the cusp of breaking into the top tier of the men's game.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, Rohit Rajpal, President of the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association (DLTA), underlined the event's importance for Indian tennis.

"The Delhi Open has firmly established itself as one of the most competitive and professionally run Challenger events in the region. Over the years, the tournament has played a critical role in bridging Indian talent with top international competition; giving our players the invaluable advantage of competing at home while offering fans the opportunity to experience world-class tennis at close quarters," Rajpal said.

Talented Japanese teenager Rei Sakamato, his compatriot Rio Noguchi and Kazakhstan's Beibit Zhukayev are also part of the field, underlining a strong Asian presence.

"Equally important is the inspiration it provides to young players training at DLTA and across the country, showing them that the pathway to the international stage is both real and achievable."

Talented Indian players Manas Dhamne and Karan Singh will feature in the singles qualifiers on February 15, adding further domestic interest to the tournament.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

A
Arjun K
Good to see a strong Asian field with players from Japan and Kazakhstan. It's a great platform for our youngsters like Manas Dhamne to gauge their level. Hope the tournament gets good coverage on TV.
P
Priya S
While it's exciting, I wish the AITA and organizers would do more to promote these events beyond Delhi and a few metro cities. Tennis needs to grow its fanbase across India, not just in the capitals.
R
Rohit P
Nagal is our only direct entry? That's a bit worrying. We need more players breaking into the top 200. The pathway Mr. Rajpal mentions is real, but we need more coaches and infrastructure at the grassroots to walk on it.
M
Michael C
Visiting India for work and might catch this! Clarke is a solid player. Interesting to see the mix of established Challenger players and young talent. The DLTA complex is a great venue.
K
Kavya N
All the best to Sumit Nagal! He's been so consistent. Hope the home crowd gives him that extra energy. Also keeping an eye on Karan Singh in the qualifiers. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳

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