Chennai, Feb 01: Former Indian Davis Cup captain
Ramesh Krishnan today lauded Sania Mirza and Mahesh Bhupathi
for winning their maiden Grand Slam title together at the
Australian Open, saying their triumph augurs well for Indian
tennis.
"Like every Indian I am happy for the excellent win.
Mahesh played exceedingly well. He led from the front in their
straight set win for the title, particularly getting in as
wild cards," Krishnan said referring to the 6-3, 6-1 win carved
out by the Indians against the French-Israeli combine of
Nathalie Dechy and Andy Ram at the Melbourne Park today.
Krishnan said the triumph would be particularly
morale-boosting for Sania, who has been battling injuries and
poor form for the past one year.
"Sania's first Grand Slam title coming at the time when
she has been troubled by injuries is a heart warming one. It
should boost her confidence. Today's great victory should help
her to start winning lot many matches in singles as well.
Overall, it has been good tiding for Indian tennis
particularly for the youngsters," he said.
This year's Australian Open has been fantastic for Indian
tennis with Yuki Bhambri becoming the first Indian to clinch
the junior singles' title at the Melbourne Park.
Bhupathi, apart from winning the mixed doubles title,
finished runners-up in the men's doubles event with Mark
Knowles of Bahamas.
Bureau Report
First Published: Sunday, February 01, 2009, 00:00