I’ve had best year of my career so far: Somdev

Your thoughts on directly qualifying to the main draw for the first time?
I’m very excited. I feel like I’ve had the best year of my career so far. So, it’s nice to be in the main draw of a Slam.

Were you more relaxed this time around?
Since there wasn’t any qualifying, I didn’t feel any pressure.

Doesn’t coming through qualifiers keep you in good touch?
Yes, but it also takes a lot out of you physically and mentally and you aren’t as fresh for the main draw matches.

Unlike before, you have a few days off. How did you prepare?
I have been getting a lot of good practices in and have been relaxing. Luckily, I have a very experienced coach and he really takes care of the scheduling aspect of things.

What are your thoughts on your first-round opponent?
I think Kevin Anderson is a very good player with a really big serve. I’m going to have to play very well to beat him.

How far do you see yourself progressing?
First things first. The 1st round is all I’m focussed on right now.

How do you judge your current form?
I have been playing pretty well off late. I played a lot of matches over the last month and have been getting better and better.

Your favourite to win?
I don’t want to give anyone else a chance if I’m still in the tournament, but if I lose, I think Roger (Federer) has the best chance of winning.

You looked good against Monfils at the Toronto Masters. What went wrong?
I lost serve and missed a couple of break opportunities. That always hurts.

How have Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi helped you?
They’ve always been really supportive and have given me advice if I needed it.

Will you be competing in the CWG?
I am planning to represent the country at the CWG.