Hyderabad: Hours after breaking down on national television defending her Indianness in the wake of adverse comments by politicians questioning her credentials to be appointed brand ambassador of Telangana, Sania Mirza was back on her feet, ready to face a few more challenges, on the tennis court. She packed her bags and left for the United States on Friday to play on the WTA circuit.
The chuckle was back and her mental strength was evident when she told this newspaper: “It’s ok. I just got a bit emotional (on TV).”
On a more serious note, Sania, who is married to Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik and has been dragged into several controversies during her career, added: “I have been through quite a lot. I hope this is the last time it has happened to me.”
Sania will not be with her parents in Hyderabad for Id — younger sister Anam is accompanying her on the tennis Tour. “It’s unfortunate that I won’t be home for Id. But that is how our (sportspersons’) life is,” the 27-year-old said with a hint of resignation.
“I will be in Washington, playing the Citi Open. I hope to do well on the US circuit and improve my rankings,” Sania, currently No.5 in women’s doubles, added.
So, my family belongs to Hyderabad for more than a century and I strongly condemn any attempts by any person, whosoever, to brand me-
— Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) July 24, 2014My great, great grandfather, Mr. Aziz Mirza was the Home Secretary under the Nizam in Hyderabad and worked tirelessly for relief works-
— Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) July 24, 20141. I am married to Mr. Shoaib Malik, who is from Pakistan. I am an Indian, who will remain an Indian until the end of my life.
— Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) July 24, 2014- an outsider. I hope this clears all doubts and issues. SANIA MIRZA
— Sania Mirza (@MirzaSania) July 24, 2014
