A quarterfinal appearance in Wimbledon with Artem Sitak of New Zealand, and a consistently good level on the Tour, projects a very positive image of Divij Sharan, but the Delhi left-hander does not allow himself to get carried away by the good tide.
Like all the professionals, the 32-year-old Divij, ranked 38 in the world in doubles tennis, takes one match at a time.
He was understandably happy to win the first round of the ATP event in Washington DC, against compatriot Leander Paes and Jamie Cerretani of the US.
Support from Paes
“It was really a close match. The stands were full and there was a lot of support for Leander as he has been playing for the Washington Kastles over the years”, observed Divij, after his 7-6(2), 3-6, 10-7 victory in partnership with Artem Sitak.
Interestingly, Divij and partner had to come through the qualifying event, a rare feature at this level for doubles.
Big victory
“It was my first victory at an ATP 500 tournament. So. I am happy that I pulled through this one”, said Divij about progressing into the quarterfinals of the $2,146,815 event that has already ensured 90 ATP points.
In the quarterfinals, Divij and partner will challenge the fourth seeds Jamie Murray of Britain and Bruno Soares of Brazil.
Divij hopes to play the Rogers Cup ATP 1000 event in Toronto, Canada, next week, but is not quite sure whether he would make the cut.
“I will try to play the ATP 1000 in Toronto next week, but the cut is looking tough. We will see if I make the draw there.
“I plan to come home to Delhi before going for the Asian Games’’, said Divij.
It would be a sensible thing to do, as apart from the collection of the accreditation card which serves as a visa, a lot of other formalities need to be completed by the Indian athletes for the Asian Games to be held in Jakarta and Palembang from August 18 to September 2.