Rohan Bopanna, at 30, has had the best year of his tennis career by reaching the men’s doubles final of the US Open.
Arriving in Chennai late on Sunday night via Frankfurt, Bopanna was on the practice court on Monday with Somdev Devvarman to prepare for India’s Davis Cup World Group play-off against Brazil.
Bopanna said India enjoyed the home advantage and would go all out to win the crucial tie.
“We can give it a good shot and continue to remain in the World Group. It has been physically tough as I have already been eight weeks on the road,” he said when asked about the September 17-19 match.
“This will be my ninth week of continuous tennis, but the confidence is there and I am going to take the next step forward. I will work out with my trainer on how to save energy as it is humid out here. I think I am physically fine and I need to believe in myself.”
On the opponents, he said, “The Brazilians have strong singles players, as both are left-handed. But it is great to have a home tie (last played against Japan in New Delhi in 2008),” he said. “The court is same as in January (for Chennai Open), but it is slower as compared to the US Open.
Asked how he felt on coming to the Davis Cup after the US Open feat, he said, “My confidence is very high. I am hitting the ball well and playing well. I have to win the match on Friday.”
