Former tennis ace Vijay Amritraj believes Sania Mirza's improvement in rankings depend entirely on her fitness.
"She will need to keep herself fit throughout the next season and play as many matches as possible. Losing out on tournaments due to lack of fitness will mean a dip in her rankings," said Amritraj in Delhi, on Thursday.
Pointing out that the Hyderabadi lass was a victim of several injuries in the past, he said she will have to get back to the drawing board and chalk out a plan with her coach.
Amritraj said the current generation of tennis players is more dependent on the power game which demands more physical force on the court, thereby leaving them vulnerable to injuries.
"During my time, we played with skill rather than power. Since nowadays the courts are faster, racquets are better, power is applied more in the game, which may lead to injuries," he said.
Referring to India's prospects at next year's Beijing Olympics, he said, Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi coming together will completely depend on their rankings and personal form.
"I will love to see the best combination play and win medals for us," he said.
Amritraj said his son Prakash is recuperating well after an injury and hopes to see him back in action soon.
"He hasn't played tennis for the past six months due to his injury," he added.
© 2024 Rediff.com -