New Delhi: Weeks after she broke down on being questioned of her nationality, Tennis sensation Sania Mirza dedicated her US Open title to the country and the new state of Telangana. “I am very happy, it’s great to win it with Bruno. For the first time we played together, it’s been great two weeks. I dedicate this victory to everybody in India, my country, and to the state of Telangana and all people of Telangana,” said Sania.
Sania’s third career Grand Slam came barely a month after she was branded ‘daughter-in-law’ of Pakistan by a BJP leader due to her marriage with cricketer Shoaib Malik. Her appointment as brand ambassador of Telangana had triggered a political furore.
Sania was forced to issue a statement to assert her roots and was seen breaking down on news channels while trying to do so. Asked if the controversy played on her mind during the US Open campaign, Sania said she believes in moving forward and remains focussed on her game after stepping into the court. “I don’t think we should focus on the negatives,” said Sania, who is first Indian female player and only the third from the country after Mahesh Bhupathi and Leander Paes to have won Grand Slam titles.
On Friday night, the first-time combination of Sania and Brazil’s Bruno Soares clicked brilliantly as they secured a close win in the final to win the mixed doubles trophy. “I am extremely ecstatic, it’s a dream come true, hopefully many more will come,” said the 27-year-old.Â