Feels good to have broken the dry spell: Somdev Devvarman

The 13-year wait has ended...
I didn’t know that, to be honest. But it feels good to break the dry spell. Hopefully we’ll have many more Indians playing in Grand Slams.

Are you nervous, excited or relieved...?
I’m excited that I qualified but I know I can play a lot better and I’m looking forward to the main draw.

How does it feel to be back, playing in a Grand Slam after the US Open?
It’s always great to be able to compete at a Slam. It’s what you play for. I’m glad I made it this far but I’m ready to play again and hopefully win some more matches here.

What’s your aim now?
I haven’t thought about it too much. I know that if I play well I have a good chance against anyone. I’m just going to focus on that and take it a match at a time. Hopefully, I will have some good results. I know everyone in the main draw is good and they’re there for a reason. I know I’ll have a tough match regardless of who I play.

Clay isn’t your favourite surface...
I’ve already played three tournaments on clay before this, so I feel comfortable playing on it now.

Any specific areas you have worked on?
I’ve practised here (Paris) quite a bit. I have also played a couple of tournaments in Europe to get ready for this week and I feel like I’m getting better on it with every passing day.

Does the pressure of expectations affect you?
I don’t think about it. I know if I focus on getting better and working hard, everything else will be ok. So I’m glad I have a team around me helps me with that.