Physical fitness will be key in Davis Cup, says Leander Paes

New Delhi: Ahead of the much-anticipated Davis Cup tie between India and Czech Republic, tennis ace Leander Paes, who has recently won the US Open mix-doubles title, stated that physical fitness will play a crucial role during the tie.

The 42-year-old is in Delhi, where the Davis Cup duel is scheduled to take place. After sweating it out in a practice session in the national capital, the winner of 19 Grand Slams told The Indian Express that: “Physical fitness will be a huge factor in this tie. If you come out at noon after a five set duel in this Delhi heat, the physicality of this tie will be phenomenal.”

Paes also praised Czech Radek Stepanek and admitted that the doubles rubber against him would be crucial.

“Radek is one of my dear friends. He is an athlete for whom I have tremendous respect for. The quality of tennis on Saturday is going to be high. I am sure he will come out in full force to get my scalp, and I am ready for it,” he added.

Though Czech Republic are a Davis Cup powerhouse but India can take heart from the fact that world number six Tomas Berdych is not available to represent his country.