ITF Tumakuru Open: Justina Mikulskytė Claims Title As Zuzanna Pawlikowska Retires Hurt In Final

The ITF W35 Tumakuru Open ended early on Sunday at the Tumakuru District Tennis Association courts. Top seed Justina Mikulskytė took the singles title after second seed Zuzanna Pawlikowska retired hurt, bringing a quiet finish to the much-awaited clash between the leading two seeds.

Pawlikowska had already pulled out of the doubles final on Saturday due to a shoulder injury. She still walked on court for the singles title match and tried to compete. After the opening game, the Polish player could not continue and retired from the contest.

Title, ranking points and prize money

The win gave Mikulskytė her eighth ITF singles crown and continued a strong season on the international tour. The Lithuanian champion earned a winner’s cheque of USD 4,860 along with 35 WTA ranking points. Pawlikowska gained USD 2,637 and 23 ranking points as runner-up.

The women’s singles final ended with Mikulskytė leading 1-0 in the opening set when Pawlikowska retired. The official result recorded was: Justina Mikulskytė (LTU) vs. Zuzanna Pawlikowska (POL) 1-0, retired, at the Tumakuru District Tennis Association courts.

ITF Tumakuru Open: Growth Of Tennis In The Region

During the prize ceremony, Hon'ble Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara spoke on his plans for sports in Tumakuru. He said he wanted to promote sport among youth and develop Tumakuru into a sports city with better chances and facilities for athletes at many levels.

Dr. G. Parameshwara said, "I want to see a drug-free state, and one of the best ways to engage youngsters positively is through sports. It is our vision to transform Tumakuru into a sports city by creating opportunities and infrastructure for athletes," during his address.

The function was attended by several officials. They included Dr. G. Parameshwara, Home Minister and District In-charge Minister of Tumakuru; Mr. Sunil Yajaman, Hon. Joint Secretary of AITA and KSLTA; Ms. Kannika Parameshwari; Ms. Subha Kalyan, IAS, Deputy Commissioner; Mr. Ashok KV, Superintendent of Police; Mr. GR Amarnath; and Mr. Supreeth Kadavigere.