Houston (USA), Nov 14: Australian number one Mark Philippoussis is only an alternate here at the ATP Masters Cup, but is ready to prove that they also serve hard who only stand and wait.
Philippoussis finished ninth in the ATP champions race and would only play in the season-ending event if one of the eight qualifiers is hurt, but he is set to lead the Aussies against Spain in two weeks in the Davis Cup final.
"I'm getting some good training sessions under my belt whether I play or not, just using this to get ready for the Davis Cup. It's great training," he said. "I hope no-one gets hurt but if it happens for me to play I'll be ready."
Philippoussis will have to adapt to a grass surface for the Davis Cup showdown November 28-30 at Melbourne, but the Wimbledon finalist is counting on finding the same form he displayed in England when he goes home next week.
"Obviously there's no better training than being on grass at the moment," he said. "Of course I will need time to adapt. But I will get to Australia at the latest next Wednesday. That still leaves me 10 days to get ready.



"Every time I step on that grass, hit the first ball, I feel very much at home. I've been working on my serve and volley rhythm. My returns - as long as my rhythm is there, I'm going to be very confident.



"I will definitely be ready for that (first) match on Friday."


Bureau Report