It’s the day after and Sania Mirza is finding out ways to deal with her historic WTA title win. The feeling is yet to sink in as countless congratulatory phone calls keep her busy. ‘‘It is getting tougher,’’ she quips referring to the euphoria surrounding her triumph at home.Still exhausted Sania, who has her eyes set on the Dubai Open later this month, spoke to MICKY AIGNER about the fortnight that was and the road ahead.Excerpts:What do you intend to do with your pay cheque?Money does not bring anything. I play because of the passion I have for the game. For me winning is a reward and not the financial part.Looking back, were you trying to prove something?Surely yes. There were many who said that my Australian Open performance was a fluke. The WTA title is my answer to all those critics. I’ve proved that I can match the best on tour in any situation.Could you categorically classify all the matches you went through?Tzipora Oblizer in the quarters was the toughest. She was quite a handful and gave me a scare. Anna Kirilenko was my best, while Alyona Bondarenko forced me to change my style.Having won the WTA title, what is your next challenge? Getting done with my injuries. This has been ‘one week.’ Now, my immediate job is to get some medical attention and a fitness course.Is there any thought of engaging a travelling coach?Well, Mahesh Bhupathi has been of great help. It surprises me that if I could win a tournament without one, why the need. As of now, well, it’s not necessary.Can you tell us the difference between Sania now and that of the past?You tell me (grins). Anyway, I think I am more mature now and surely know what to do and when to do. One thing I surely know is how to change according to a situation.What was the one defining moment of this historic win?Honestly, my confidence was the key, and more so the belief in myself.Any plans of transforming this success into acting?No way. I’ve had offers from film makers, but I have no plan at all. It’s just tennis and that’s it for now. If I had to be a model or actress I would have been there.
