Aircel Chennai Open 2016: Five things we learned from this year's tournament

#2 Ramkumar rises as Somdev fades

Devvarman crashed out to the tournament’s youngest – Andrey Rublev

The youngest person in the draw (yes, there was somebody younger than Coric), Andrey Rublev, defeated India’s Somdev Devvarman in the first round. That loss marked the third year in a row that Devvarman has lost in the first round here. His star has begun to fade in the last couple of years and while still a solid player in the Davis Cup, he has slipped as a singles player on tour.

As his star has faded, Ramanathan Ramkumar’s has emerged. He inflicted the first of three losses on Devvarman in 2013, and had a breakout tournament this year.

Pumping up the local crowd and with them in his sails, Ramanathan displayed a brand of tennis that was aggressive yet thoughtful. His serve has improved markedly, helping him construct points well. His backhand still needs work – it is the primary reason why he runs around it to take the forehand so much more.

But above all, the man has heart. And well-nurtured, his skill and spirit could help him join Yuki Bhambri in the Top 100. For now, though, what’s important, is that he has a solid showing from which to learn.