India’s Federation Cup captain Sania Mirza retraced her steps through time in an informal chat with the media after her side clinched the two singles rubbers against Malaysia. Two life-changing decisions were her marriage in 2010 and giving up singles for doubles.
“I couldn’t even lift a comb after the wrist injury and had almost quit tennis. Six months after marriage, Shoaib said I should play again and I did play well, doing well with different partners,” she said.
After her first title on this very court, did she dream she would return as world No. 1?
“It’s just like God has written this script for me. He helped me win the first title here and he made me No. 1. He did so many great things in my life,” she acknowledged.
On two world toppers from this city, Saina Nehwal and herself, she said the secret was that both ate Hyderabadi biriyani. Teaming up with Martina Hingis happened in Dubai and they won three titles. “It’s great to have a partner like her and we want to win more important titles this year,” Sania said.
On Indian tennis after her, she said, “Now Ankita Raina is coming up well. She’s reached a stage where she can get into Grand Slams. That’s a great sign. Good things are happening on the women’s front.
“Even here in the Fed Cup we have a very strong team. The girls are working hard and doing well.”
On the road ahead, she said, “I don’t know. I will stop when I think I can’t do this anymore. I love competing and working hard every day.”