Tennis Masters Cup in Shanghai is my priority: Leander

Pune, Oct 2 (UNI) ''The ensuing Tennis Masters Cup at Shanghai in China will be my top priority before the Dhoa Asian games. I have already set my sight on the tournament,'' observed tennis icon Leander Paes.

Talking to reporters after formally inaugurating the ultra modern gymkhana at the cybercity at Magarpatta, the tennis ace said, ''I was runners-up last year and this year would very much like to win it in Shanghai.'' The 33-year-old Paes had always performed and done well in any tournament be it Davis Cup, Asain Games or the Olympics.

The suave and endearing tennis ace said, ''From a very young age, I had dreamt of representing the country in five Olympics and equal number of Asain Games, which will soon be materialised.'' ''Doha Asiad has given me the opportunity to represent the country for the fifth occasion and hopefully the Beijing Olympics will also be my fifth occasion,'' he said.

Paes, who came here after taking part in the recently concluded Kingfisher Airlines tennis championship in Mumbai to inaugurate the Nandan Bal Tennis Academy at Magarpatta, praised Davis Cup coach Nadan Bal for his dedication, acumen and skills.

More UNI IS SSS DKA