From an idol to a friend who I can trust

I met Mahesh a few years later when I first played the Wimbledon Juniors in 2001. I remember him shouting out some encouraging words to me as I went out to practice. Then I went to his father, CGK Bhupathi in Bangalore to iron out a few rough edges in my game soon after coming back from Wimbledon and our families drew closer to each other.

I met Mahesh again in Busan during the Asian Games in 2002. Though I partnered Leander in the mixed doubles, I became good friends with Mahesh, as well. We continued to stay in touch on and off and I thoroughly enjoyed partnering him in the Afro-Asian Games in Hyderabad, where we won a gold medal. Playing alongside him, I realised what a great doubles player he is. Today, when I understand the game a lot better, I am convinced that he is one of the classiest backhand court players in the world.

Events so transpired that Mahesh’s company, Globosport became my official agent. I now had a business relationship with the Bhupathis and it only strengthened the personal bond that our families shared.

Mahesh Bhupathi is, undoubtedly, a major star in his own right and has been one for over a decade but he is the kind of unassuming man, who would much rather not have the spotlight on himself. To me, he is a dear friend I trust totally and one I know I can count on if I ever need help.

(PMG/Globosport)