KARAN, RESHMA WIN U-16 TITLES AT NATIONALS

New Delhi: Karan Singh and Reshma Maruri were crowned the under-16 boys’ and girls’ national champions respectively after they emerged winners in the Fenesta Open finals on Saturday. Fourth seed Karan erased one-set deficit to down second seed Udit Gogoi 5-7 64, 7-6 (3) in a match of fluctuating fortunes. Having lost the first set, Karan then changed tactics with a mix of deep groundstrokes and also change of pace in rallies. As the match wore on, Karan looked hungrier of the two and his ability to belt the ball from the back court was impressive as he won the marathon tie. In the under16 girls final, Reshma, who trains under India’s Davis Cup coach Zeeshan Ali in Bengaluru, played solid tennis to down Pari Singh 7-5 6-2. Zeeshan flew from Bengaluru to watch Resham fight for the title. “It was a tough match but I kept fighting. I have played a couple of nationals in different categories but this was the best experience so far and a dream come true. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my coach, family, friends and the Fenesta team,” said Reshma. The boys under-14 final was won by Aayush Bhat, who beat top seed Agriya Yadav 3-6 6-1 6-0. “The final was tough and my opponent played really well. This tournament has always been a pleasure coming to, especially since the previous week of under-18 and men’s I got to learn a lot. I’m looking forward to the next edition of this tournament,” said Aayush. Pavitra Parikhit took the Under-14 girls title with a 6-1 6-4 win over second seed Shruti Ahlawat.