Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi

Chennai, Jan 03: Just forget the fact that Chennai Open has been unable to attract any of the top five players. People were still enthusiastic, as they entered the SDAT Stadium even before the start of tournament, a day before. The only reason behind this was that, the Indian duo Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi were returning as a team in their city. “It’s feeling great to be back here. Lot of history has been created in this city,” said Paes, who was surveying the stadium where many of the fans came to watch, especially while he was practicing. This was the only stage where the ‘Spice Boys’ as they are called, had rocked the event during the first week of every year from 1996 to 2002 and being successful in clinching four titles from 1997 to 1999 and in 2002.

Though they are little bit older now but that had not stopped their great chemistry on the court. And it is confirmed that, Paes-Bhupathi will share their presence in the Chennai Open this week. They are the role models of Indian Tennis. Somdev Devvarman, who was the finalist in 2009 here accompanied by wild cards Rohan Bopanna and Yuki Bhambri, will participate in the singles draw. Somdev entered in the tournament directly on account of his merit rankings and will be eager to make most out of it in front of his home crowd. The doubles pair of Rohan Bopanna and Pakistan’s Aisam Qureshi will also be highlighted as they will surely attract the crowds towards them.

As the event is coinciding with the ATP events in Doha and Brisbane, the singles field is certainly missing the powerful names. The huge amount of money of $1.5 million for just the appearance has made Nadal and Roger to play in Doha while Brisbane benefits its proximity to the Australian Open.

Tags: Chennai Open, Indian Express, Indian Tennis, Leander Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, Rohan Bopanna, SDAT Stadium, Somdev Devvarman, Tennis