AITA Accuses Sumit Nagal of Demanding Davis Cup Fee

The All India Tennis Association (AITA) has claimed that Sumit Nagal demanded an annual fee of $50,000 to represent India in Davis Cup ties, a move Nagal defended as standard practice for athletes seeking compensation. Nagal, who recently withdrew from the Davis Cup tie against Sweden due to a back strain, argued that players are entitled to payment for their services. India's Davis Cup team faced a 0-4 defeat without a singles specialist, highlighting the impact of top players opting out of national duty. AITA expressed disappointment over Nagal and other top players' refusal to participate, emphasizing that they receive prize money from the International Tennis Federation (ITF) for their involvement. The AITA clarified that players are already compensated through this prize money, which is distributed among team members. The controversy raises questions about the value and expectations of national representation in sports.