Interview: "No plans of joining the parallel tennis league" - Vijayant Malik

Vijayant Malik is a tall, lanky tennis player who hails from Chandigarh and was recently part of the Davis Cup team. He is said to be one of India’s most talented players on the tennis circuit.

Q. Were you expecting a call to play for the Davis Cup team?

I was not expecting it really. When I was told that I would be playing in the Davis Cup, I was excited and nervous at the same time, as it was the first time I was going to represent my country. The Davis Cup is the biggest team tournament and it was like a dream come true for me.

Q. What do you have to say about the tussle, which is going on between AITA and other players?

To be honest I don’t know anything about it and therefore it would be inappropriate for me to comment on it.

Q. You’ve often suffered from cramps during matches. Do you think it’s because you lack fitness?

I won’t say that at all. I have played in deadly heat and some really long matches and I have never cramped my legs. It was just all of sudden this once. Even Dr. Paes said that maybe because I was too excited. The area I really lacked in was experience, I guess.

Q. What is your training schedule like?

I train three times every day. Most of the time I’m busy playing tournaments but I keep up with my fitness no matter what. I train at Sirifort in Delhi with my coach Mr. Aditya Sachdeva. Before this I trained in Chandigarh Lawn Tennis Academy for 8 years and it had some of the best Indian players.

Q. Do you have enough sponsors?

No I don’t. I have to manage my own expenses, which to say frankly is a tough thing. I think Indian players find it hard to get a sponsorship deal. It’s probably why we are still way behind on the international circuit. Talent wise I think we have a lot of potential.

Q. Are you planning to join the parallel league which is starting? Do you think you’ll be in the Davis Cup team for the rest of the matches?

As of now, no plans. I am minding my own business and doing what I do best, that is playing tennis. As for the Davis Cup team, if I get a call I would be really happy to play for my country again.