Rohan Bopanna picks Saketh Myneni over Leander Paes as preferred partner for Rio 2016

World number 10 in doubles, Indian tennis star Rohan Bopanna has named Saketh Myneni, instead of veteran Leander Paes as his preferred partner for men's doubles category for the Rio Olympics.

Bopanna secured the Rio berth because of the top 10 ATP ranking. On Friday, he told All India Tennis Association about his preference ahead of the official announcement to be made by AITA on Saturday.

"A direct acceptance provides me the right to nominate my men's doubles partner, an opportunity for me to exercise my judgement as to the best possible partner for me. I have, earlier today, communicated my decision to the AITA," said Bopanna in a statement released to the media.

In 2012, for London Olympics, Bopanna paired with Mahesh Bhupathi, while Paes played with the inexperienced Vishnu Vardhan, which is turn hurt India's chances to win medals.

Paes is just coming off winning the French Open mixed doubles title with Martina Hingis. There is no sign of him slowing down and he is keen on playing his seventh Olympics.

This means that Paes is still a top choice for AITA. Hence, it is a possibility that Bopanna's preference will not be awarded. According to NDTV, AITA CEO Hironmoy Chatterjee said that the final decision lies with the selection committee. He also said that the committee is under no pressure to pick a combination as per one player's choice and 'the best team' will be chosen from the available talent.