Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Arnav Paparkar’s promising run at the Roland Garros 2026 Boys’ Singles event came to an end in the third round, but not before the young Indian showed glimpses of real potential on one of the sport’s biggest junior stages.
The 18-year-old had impressed earlier in the tournament with his composed baseline game and ability to compete under pressure, but faced a significant step up against fourth seed Jack Kennedy of the United States in the round of 16. On Court 11, Kennedy proved too strong in key moments, winning 7-5, 6-2 in a match that lasted 1 hour and 33 minutes.
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Paparkar struggled to establish rhythm throughout the match as Jack Kennedy maintained steady pressure from the baseline and consistently targeted weaknesses in his serve and backhand. In the opening set, Paparkar showed brief resistance through a few well-timed winners and extended rallies, but his overall game lacked stability. A low first-serve percentage in key service games repeatedly left him exposed, allowing Kennedy to take control of points early.
ARNAV PAPARKAR STRUGGLES UNDER PRESSURE
Paparkar’s unforced errors became a defining issue, especially during crucial moments such as deuce and break-point situations. Even after recovering from 30–30 or advantage-down positions, he often followed up with rushed or mistimed shots that immediately shifted momentum back to Kennedy. Extended rallies further highlighted his inconsistency, with shot selection breaking down under sustained pressure.
Although he managed to hold serve on a few occasions, he was unable to build momentum or sustain pressure on his opponent, eventually conceding the first set 7–5.
In the second set, Kennedy raised his intensity and quickly exploited Paparkar’s declining consistency. The Indian player’s serve once again lacked reliability, and his backhand errors increased significantly. Kennedy dominated return games, converting breaks efficiently and keeping Paparkar under constant pressure. Despite occasional holds, Paparkar could not mount a recovery as Kennedy closed out the set 6–2, sealing a straight-sets victory.
For Indian tennis, Paparkar’s performance in Paris is another encouraging sign at junior level. While the result against Kennedy highlighted the gap that still exists at the top end of the junior game, it also offered valuable experience against elite opposition in a Grand Slam environment.
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
