The Serbians welcomed doubles specialist Nenad Zimonjic to its camp here on Tuesday, and the 38-year-old immediately got down to business with a training session at the KSLTA Stadium.
Zimonjic, a former world No. 1, will look to spur his team to a memorable victory over a formidable Indian combination in the doubles fixture on Saturday.
He spoke to the media on his side’s chances in the Davis Cup World Group play-off tie, and other topics.
Excerpts:
On the tie: The Indians have a little more experience than our guys. Somdev Devvarman is an experienced player, but Yuki Bhambri has about the same experience as our players. If the tie goes to a decider, it will be interesting to see how Bhambri handles the pressure. Devvarman did well in Shanghai last week, but this is different situation. It will not be easy.
The doubles rubber: We are all motivated to do well for our country. The Indians have the slight edge, but we as a team (Zimonjic and Ilija Bozoljac) have beaten some of the best pairs around. With the altitude here, it will be difficult to return our serves, which is our biggest weapon.
Role as a mentor: There are many things that you can do to help the younger guys see things from a different perspective. These things do make a difference, and that is one of the other reasons why I’m here.
