The All India Tennis Association’s compromise formula to calm the big boys involved in the boisterous bust-up ahead of the Olympics has handed a cruel deal to Sania Mirza, the lone ranger in Indian women’s tennis for years.
By pairing Leander Paes with Sania, Aita has ruthlessly dismantled her proven partnership with Mahesh Bhupathi — with whom she has won two Grand Slams, last month’s French Open being the latest — and made her a pawn in the distasteful game.
Sania’s entry to the Olympics hinges on the wild card, to be announced on June 28 though — the World Doubles No. 12 missed direct qualification by two places. But she prefers to play alongside Mahesh, whose backhand-dominated game complements her style of play.
“I have been playing with Mahesh and doing well too. Personally we would like to play together but it is not in our control,” Sania had said after winning the recent French Open. With Leander by the side, “We both are forehand court players.” To simplify, it’s like dancing with two right feet.
Sania’s coach during her formative years and Mahesh’s father C.G.K. Bhupathi concurs. “It’s for everyone to see,” he told this newspaper on Friday.