Washington Open: Somdev Devvarman eliminates defending champion Alexandr Dolgopolov

Indian tennis player Somdev Devvarman defeated Alexandr Dolgopolov, who is the defending champion at the Washington Open, in straight sets 6-3, 7-6 (7-4) at the $1.76 million ATP event.

Devvarman, who is ranked 129 in the world, could face John Isner in the next stage of the tournament – the round of 16.

I’m very happy. That guy is a tough player, no question,” Devvarman was quoted by The Times of India. “I played really well in the beginning. He gave me a couple errors to break him.

“He fought back in the second set. I was serving well. It kept me in the match. I gave myself looks on his serve. It was just confidence.”

Devvarman has suffered several setbacks due to injury over the past year, but now seems to have grown in confidence ever since he made his return to the circuit.

“It’s such an advantage to be here to prepare for one of my favorite tournaments,” he said.

“I’m pretty sharp,” he added. “Physically for sure.”