Sumit Nagal gets Chinese visa for Grand Slam tennis qualifier

India’s top-ranked male tennis player Sumit Nagal has finally received his visa to travel to China for the Australian Open Playoff, which starts on November 24 in Chengdu.

“Many thanks to @Media_SAI, @MEAIndia, @China_Amb_India and @ChinaSpox_India for their prompt assistance in helping me secure the visa on time,” he posted on ‘X’ late on Thursday evening (November 13, 2025).

The 27-year-old from Jhajjar, Haryana had sought urgent intervention from the Chinese embassy on Tuesday (November 11, 2025) after his visa application was rejected without any explanation.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian later said that China issues visas to athletes from all countries, including India, in accordance with laws and regulations.

He expressed hope that the “concerned person” would submit all required documentation to the Chinese embassy in a timely manner.

The Playoff event offers regional players access to the main draw of the 2026 Australian Open.

Nagal, currently ranked 275 in the latest ATP rankings, is India’s highest-ranked singles player.

Having slipped out of the top 100, he can no longer compete directly in Grand Slam events and must rely on wildcards or qualifying rounds.

He played in the main draw of the Australian Open last year, losing in the opening round, and falling in the qualifiers at both Roland Garros and Wimbledon.

Nagal also played a key role in India’s Davis Cup victory over Switzerland earlier this year, recording victories in both his singles matches against lower-ranked opponents.