It has been a frustrating year for India’s top singles player, Somdev Devvarman. Some good performances in the three-Challenger swing at the start of the year, which got him as high-up as 76 in the rankings, were negated by a mid-season slump.
A memorable win in the Davis Cup against Dusan Lajovic and a runner-up finish at a Challenger in Shanghai might have helped salvage the season a bit, but a drop in the rankings to the 140s put him out of contention for a place in the main draw of the Aircel Chennai Open.
Now ranked 138, the 29-year-old, who is hoping for a fresh start, interacted with the media on Friday.
Excerpts:
On the past year: There were some good spots and some not so good. But as a whole it was mediocre if not the worst ever. But I am motivated to do well this season. I feel like its going to be good.
On his off-season: Its been one of the best off seasons ever. I spent a week with Tony Roche in Kolkata. What better way than a legend breaking down your game? Then I trained for two weeks in Doha. Tennis is very physical. I can’t possible have a serve like Raonic’s but I can certainly improve it. I tried doing that. And also I hope to use my forehand more as a weapon.
Soon to be 30, do you think you are over the hill? The desire is to always become a better tennis player. I am not exactly bothered where I am on the hill. Some players play their best tennis in the 30s. I have lots of self belief now and I hope I can do it.
On fitness concerns: I am in one of my best shapes ever. I have worked a lot. Yes, as you age it’s easy to drop. But I am not worried.
On the approach to the start of the season: Once the season starts its always all out. Everybody wants to win the tournament and will go full throttle. Nobody plays at 80 per cent. Everybody looks to be in good shape before the Australian Open.
On playing doubles: No. I don’t think so. But I’ll try put my name and see if I can get in.
Target for 2015: I need to get my level up and be back into the top 100.
