Even Mark Philippousis may not remember the number of times his knees have undergone surgery. But an over-riding love for the game had him don the role of legend for the Hyderabad Aces in the Champions Tennis League that kicks off here on Monday night.
How was life since the Scud missile days? “I live in San Diego (California). It’s a lot more relaxing now and I spend time surfing or hitting a few shots now and then. I have a nine-month old son,” said the awesome Aussie.
Martina Hingis’s 100-watt smile shone bright all through. “Playing one set at a time is enjoyable,” she said. “Mikhail (Youzhny) and I were partners earlier in mixed doubles and it’s good to be teammates here again,” she said.
She described the nearly two-hour practice session with Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan as fun and a good way to get back into rhythm. “I am sure the crowd support will be awesome. I have never had so many people turn up to watch me practice,” she observed. The former world no. 1 found the stadium nice and cosy and hoped 4000 spectators would be there .
On the prospects of the Hyderabad Aces winning the title, she said it was a must to be positive.
A privilegeNedunchezhiyan said it was a privilege to be a part of the Hyderabad Aces. Vijay’s concept of the CTL was a great idea he said and he reiterated it was an honour to be a part of the team.
Youzhny wished to wait till tomorrow to be able to comment on the playing conditions here.
“We won’t let you go home unless you win,” was a threat the Scud said he’d received, with mock seriousness.
