Thaindian News

London, July 23 (IANS) Indian tennis player Somdev Devvarman says he was not surprised at getting a singles wild card entry for the London Olympics.

“The news that I got a wild card for the Olympics was not a total surprise, I always had a chance. Anyway I am happy that I got it,” Somdev said during an interaction at the Games Village here.

Asked about his shoulder injury that kept him away from the game for nine months, Somdev said: “This is the first time in my career that I had an injury like that. Yes I used to feel the shoulder pain but I overlooked it and then it became worse. So I had a surgery in November and now I am fully fit.”

Somdev said he was prepared for the Olympics despite the forced break.

“Look I have been preparing and playing for last 15 years and by now I am feeling superb and mentally prepared.

“After the 2010 Asian Games where I was at my peak, I played against the top players - be it Nadal, Federer or Murray. I also beat some players who were among the top 30. I was number 62, the highest ranking any Indian men’s player had earned after Ramesh Krishnan.”

Somdev made it clear that he will be concentrating on singles in the near future.

“Oh yes that is for sure, I am 27-year old and have a few more years to go, so I will prefer playing singles.

“When I started playing, my dream was to represent the country. The dream has been fulfilled. I have been lucky to do something for my country. I became the first Indian to win a singles gold at Asian Games. I have done reasonably well in Davis Cup,” he said.

He said he had some highs and few lows in his career but “I suppose this happens with every player. Tennis has become a very demanding sport and it takes a toll on your body.”

Somdev said he was keen to meet US basketball players and Jamaican star runner Usain Bolt during the Olympics. “I am also looking forward to meet some other sporting greats,” he added.