Eyeing more success in 2013

Having notched up her best-ever ranking of seven in the world in the doubles, Sania Mirza feels the 2012 was a very satisfying one. The 26-year-old reached six finals, won her second Grand Slam title at the French Open in the mixed doubles event with Mahesh Bhupathi. “So, personally, 2012 was a very satisfying year for me,’’ said Sania.

Excerpts from an interview

On 2012 performance

This year I achieved my best-ever ranking of seven in the world. I won the second Grand Slam of my career apart from 2 other WTA titles. I reached 6 finals during the year. So, personally, 2012 was a very satisfying year for me.

On choosing doubles over singles

After three surgeries in five years, it is no longer practical for me to focus on both singles and doubles. I’ve done that for a decade in professional tennis and my body is no longer up to it. Since I had a remarkable year in doubles, a choice had to be made.

On fitness and injuries

After the kind of battering I’ve had on my body as a result of 20 years of tennis, I have to look after myself and play within the limitations. But by Almighty’s grace, apart from the usual aches and pains, I’m in reasonable shape.

On best phase of the year

Winning the French Open title was definitely the high point of the year.

On London Olympics and controversy

I thought Leander and I played well, specially considering that we had not played together for a very long time. We were distinctly unlucky to lose to the gold medallists in the quarters. I think the controversies affected all of us.

On the new season

I’m striking the ball well and looking forward to another successful year in 2013.

On her partners for upcoming season

I’m partnering Bethanie Mattek-Sands in the women’s doubles at the start of the season and if we do well, we will continue together. In the Australian Open, I’m playing with Bob Bryan in mixed event.

On her book

It is nearly complete and I will release it in the coming year.

On tennis academy in Hyderabad

The academy is my dream project and my way of giving back to tennis and to my country. I’m trying to provide all the facilities that I missed out on while growing up and I hope to give the next generation of tennis players from India a perfect platform to hone their skills.