In mixed doubles, Sania- Myself are the best team: Paes stakes Olympics claim

The 42-year old recalled the drama that was played out before the 2012 London Olympics with Rohan Bopanna and Mahesh Bhupathi refusing to partner him in the men’s doubles event.

"I hope that does not happen again in doubles or mixed doubles. I believe, selection should be on merit. To win three mixed doubles Grand Slams in 2015 leading to the Olympic year I certainly hope that I am India’s front runner in Rio in mixed doubles," Paes said today as he geared up to open his 2016 campaign at the Chennai Open, reported PTI.

The veteran also added that he believes that he is the best player to partner Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza for the men's and mixed doubles events.

"In men's doubles I believe the best team is Rohan and myself and likewise in mixed doubles it is Sania and myself.

The fact is that neither (Sania and Rohan) has made any of the finals in mixed doubles in 2015. That being said, having won nine mixed doubles both on the deuce court and Ad-court - I have won it on both sides. I am adaptable to both sides. Also remember that we have won an Asian Games medal together," Paes asserted, reported PTI.

When asked whether he would partner with Rohan Bopanna and Sania Mirza in the run-up to the Olympics, Paes said he has approached Rohan Bopanna.

"I had asked Rohan whether he would like to partner me in Chennai Open and other tournaments coming to the Olympics.

But, it seems he is set with his partnerships and he was not keen on my offer. I do feel it is important to play a few tournaments together in an Olympic year."

In the case of Sania, he said, "I have spoken with her a few times. Without shadow of a doubt when one goes by merit, winning three Grand Slams leading to the Olympics kind of speaks for itself."

Paes also clarified that he did not offer to partner with Sania since he did not want to break his partnership with Martina Hingis, which won three Grand Slams.

"To win three Grand Slams of four, you do not want to break that as it is not a bad achievement. Hence, Martina Hingis is one of the greatest partners that I have had. She is one of the legends of the game and a great partner too. So, I am playing with her in the Aussie Open.

The Olympics bronze medallist is, however, prepared for another selection drama and confirmed that he will continue his tennis journey irrespective of the result.

"I will continue my journey. No one can take my history away. Do what you want, my journey is my journey. I respect the game of tennis. I respect playing for India, tri-colour flag, I respect playing for our people. My journey will remain mine no matter what other nonsense happens, it is for the people to answer," Paes said, reported PTI.