It was a sentimental clash of the Titans in the Champions Tennis League (CTL) on Tuesday. Hyderabad Aces big serving Mark Philippoussis taking on his former ‘guru’ and ex-Wimbledon champion Pat Cash. The towering Aussies provided a perfect start to the evening’s proceedings after Vijay Amritraj, brainchild behind the CTL, introduced the line-ups to the sparse crowd.
Then there World No. 6 Rawandska taking on her ‘inspirational’ figure Martina Hingis. The big names giving glimpses of their vintage class with a delectable display which drew repeated applause. There were lusty cheers when Cash applauded an ace from his opponent and later screamed in a friendly protest when Philippoussis went for an easy winner at the net.
The popularity of Vijay was amply evident by the way fans crowded him and posed for snaps for posterity. The best part was the way the sober and affable champion ensured them to be in comfort zone. And more importantly, the presence of the Telugu-speaking Saketh Myneni in Pune Marathas was not missed out.
The Asian Games mixed doubles gold medallist (partnering Sania Mirza) was obviously the biggest name in action from local perspective. Incidentally, he is playing here for the first time Asiad gold. For Hyderabadi Nidhi Chilumala of Hyderabad Aces it should have been a terrific experience to be with the former World No. 1 Martina Hingis.
“Yes, it is a wonderful feeling. She is so friendly and definitely picked a few new points just by watching her train and discuss about the sport,” the young champion said. Cyberabad Police Commissioner C V Anand too was seen sharing a few thoughts with Vijay in the gallery.
