The Bengaluru Open ATP 125 ignited on Monday, January 5, 2026, at KSLTA Stadium, launching its 10th edition with high-stakes round-of-32 clashes on hard courts. Upgraded to a $225,000 event, it featured a balanced field where seeds faced tough tests, blending international firepower with Indian resilience.
Top Seeds’ Commanding Wins
Second seed Harold Mayot (France, No. 152) dismantled his opponent 6-2, 6-4, unleashing precise flat groundstrokes and 80% first-serve dominance to advance efficiently. Fifth seed Matej Dodig (Croatia, No. 245) fell early to Manas Dhamne but had shown serving prowess prior; other seeds like fourth-seeded players held firm with baseline rallies.
Third seed navigated a three-setter, saving break points through varied pace, underscoring the draw’s depth beyond top billing.
Indian Stars and Upsets
India No. 1 Sumit Nagal (No. 275) powered past SD Prajwal Dev 6-3, 6-3, firing seven aces and breaking thrice with deep returns.
Rising teen Manas Dhamne (No. 556) stunned Dodig 7-6(6), 6-4, clinching 78% first-serve points and 12/15 net points for his biggest career win.
International Standouts Emerge
Qualifier advances featured aggressive servers like Japan’s Yosuke Watanuki, who edged a rival 7-5, 6-7, 6-3 via 10 aces despite double faults.
European prospects, including a German wildcard, grinded out 6-4, 7-5 victories, exploiting second-serve weaknesses in humid conditions.
Tactical Patterns Observed
Monday favored first-strike tennis: winners averaged 75% first-serve holds, with tiebreaks (three total) hinging on net approaches. Low-bounce courts amplified forehand winners, though returners like Dhamne thrived by stepping in early.
Round-of-16 Setup
Nagal meets Mayot in a marquee clash, pitting experience against power; Dhamne faces a seed survivor. Expect doubles openers with N Sriram Balaji partnering strongly, plus Aryan Shah’s potential upset run.
Ranzi Sports 
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