Yuki Bhambri’s name reappears on the big boards after he handed the All India Tennis Association a clean fitness certificate, confirming he’s ready to roll out of the gate at the 2026 Asian Games.
The young Indian star was sidelined for the Davis Cup qualifier against South Korea because a right‑thigh strain flared up after his US Open main‑draw match. India lost the tie 1‑3, the lone win coming from N. Sriram Balaji.
Bhambri’s first‑round exit at the US Open – a 6‑7, 6‑7 loss to Ryan Seggerman and Patrik Trhac – was a bitter moment, but he said he’d do what he can to get back on the court. He admitted he can’t sprint for drop shots or chase every ball, but he’s determined to avoid missing the Asian Games.
The Indian contingent for the Games in Aichi‑Neyong will feature seven players: Sumit Nagal takes the sole singles spot, while the doubles lineup includes N. Sriram Balaji‑Anirudh Chandrasekar, DK Suresh‑Yuki Bhambri, and the women’s pair Ankita Raina‑Rutuja Bhosale. Bhambri’s return in the doubles mix is seen as a strategic boost.
The tennis event kicks off on September 27 at Higashiyama Park Tennis Center in Nagoya, and the Indian squad will head straight from Seoul to Nagoya after the Davis Cup. The next challenge: proving that the new fitness clearance translates into strong performances on the continental stage.