DEC 29: India's Number one tennis player Leander Adrian Paes after all the highs in '99, went through a tough phase in the new Millennium. Suffering niggling injuries and his partnership sans Mahesh Bhupathi could not fetch him the desired results. The Indian pair patched up their differences and ended the year positively, despite losing the World Doubles final to Piet Norval (South Africa) and Don Johnson (USA).Paes has landed up here for the Gold Flake Open to get some practice before the real thing starts on Monday. He shared his views with the media at the Krishnan Tenni Centre today while waiting for his exhibition doubles to start which unfortunately could not take place because of rain.``It's good to have a tournament before the Gold Flake Open. Indian players need such tournaments to improve and show their skills,'' said Paes.``I would like to contribute more for India. When I play Davis Cup two to three times a year, I share some of my experiences with them,'' said Paes.About the big difference in level between Indians and Europeans: ``There is a big difference between Indian and European players. They are physically stronger than us but tactically and technically we are better. However, we need to work on our fitness and keep trying hard.''On his singles career taking a backseat, He said: ``The doubles is my bread and butter. Sometimes it is hard to play well in singles and doubles because of the tight schedule and depth in the game. Tennis is also becoming a specialised sport. However, I will take it as challenge and do my best.''On Sunil Kumar not living up to his potential: ``Sunil Kumar is going through a transitional period. It is always tough in adolescent years (16-22). Indians have talent but need proper guidance and nurturing. Luckily, I had proper grooming when I was young. The good thing is Sunil has qualified for the Australian Open Juniors in 2001,'' was Paes' frank evaluation.``We need coaches like Ramesh Krishnan. Ramesh has played at the top level for a long time. He has got tremendous experience. And, one can learn a lot from him,'' reflected Paes about Ramesh Krishnan.About match fixing in cricket: Paes was reluctant to answer but finally said: ``I will be unhappy if its happening in tennis. Of course, It's not happening. It's not fair to judge about cricketers since I'm not directly involved in the game.''Paes hopes the year 2001 will be without any injury. He would like to get going in the New Year with his favourite hardcourt surface at the Nungamabakkam Tennis Stadium where he is yet to lose a doubles match in the Gold Flake Open.The India duo will be gunning for their fourth title and victory here might spur them to another outstanding year.
