On-court chemistry did it: Sania Mirza on winning French Open

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On a grey but cool night in Paris, Bengaluru’s Mahesh Bhupathi ended his three-year Grand Slam drought partnering Sania Mirza to the French Open mixed doubles title on Thursday night.

New dad Bhupathi, who won his 12th Slam title en route to claiming his second with Sania, dedicated the triumph to his four-month daughter Saira.

“I dedicate the win to my daughter Saira. This is my first Grand Slam victory after she was born,” said Bhupathi to this newspaper.

Showering praise on her partner, Sania, who termed Bhupathi one of the best doubles players in the world, said, “His backhand returns and net game are world-class. He’s also a very close friend and we have a great chemistry on court, lifting each other’s spirits and game when the chips are down.”

The victory strengthens Sania’s pitch for a London Olympics wild card.

“I think in winning the French Open title, we have shown that we are a tough team to beat. I am hopeful of an Olympics wild card.”