So it came at last. The much awaited Grand Slam title No.11 for Mahesh Bhupathi. Along with Sania Mirza, he demolished Nathalie Dechy of France and Israel’s Andy Ram.
So it came at last. The much awaited Grand Slam title No.11 for Mahesh Bhupathi. Along with Sania Mirza, he demolished Nathalie Dechy of France and Israel’s Andy Ram 6-3 6-1 at the Rod Laver Arena in the mixed doubles final of the Australian Open on Sunday.
This was a significant win for both Indians in more ways than one and a relieved Bhupathi admitted that returning empty-handed from Melbourne after appearing in two finals was a prospect that occurred to him a number of times. Bhupathi and his Bahamian partner Mark Knowles lost 6-2 5-7 0-6 to Bob and Mike Bryan in the men’s doubles final on Saturday.
“Yes, it did cross my mind… It was a tough battle against the Bryans as we lost after winning the first set. I tried to stay positive… Sania, my coach and trainer also kept up my confidence,” Bhupathi told DNA over the phone from Melbourne.
This was not only Sania’s maiden Grand Slam but she also became the first Indian woman to capture a Major.
The duo had their strategy in place. They broke Ram’s serve in the opening game and went up 2-0. All along, the Indian pair stayed aggressive with Sania complementing Bhupathi’s deft hand at nets with power hitting.
“Yes, we wanted to go for our shots…That’s where our strength lies,” the senior pro said.
For someone who has won 11 Grand Slam titles, this win was “special”.
“It was a pretty solid win…We both played aggressive tennis and things fell in place…It’s special always to win a Grand Slam,” he said.
The wily veteran paid compliments to Sania for her maiden Grand Slam title and said the partnership is for keeps.
“She obviously played very well. When she is on song it’s a great sight. We are playing very well together and hope to keep the partnership going.”
The Indian wild card pair’s win comes after Yuki Bhambri’s junior Australian Open crown, capping off an impressive Slam for India. Bhupathi felt the win would inspire more youngsters to take up tennis.
“I hope our win inspires the youngsters to take up this great game…Though I’m not sure how,” he chuckled.
After two emoting, sapping finals, Bhupathi isn’t looking forward to a grand reception back home.
“No… can’t say I am keyed up for a grand reception. I’m not that sort. I’m pretty tired too and would much rather like to quietly make my way out.”
The warhorse, with 11 Grand Slams in his kitty, has no plans of immediate retirement.
“You think I should?” Bhupathi posed on being asked whether he has any plans. “I am still good enough for some more time,” he signed off.
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