The AITA teamed up Leander Paes and Sania Mirza for the mixed doubles competition at the Doha Asian Games. Mahesh Bhupathi, who had played a big hand in getting Sania the status she enjoys in India, felt slighted, complained; got his reasons from secretary Anil Khanna and said he'd respect the decision.
Two weeks later, Bhupathi the organiser was at the forefront managing his tournament in Mumbai. It was a success; Bhupathi also won the doubles event with Mario Ancic. All was well. Then in the post-match conference he nonchalantly said he was 'contemplating' not playing for India again.
'The Asian Games is a long way-off,' he shrugged. But said he needs to prepare for the Australian Open, which will be played a month later than the Doha Games.
The next day Bhupathi said he would stand firm by his decision. The broad reasons for the conclusion: gearing up for the Australian Open (the only Grand Slam men's doubles he hasn't won), the Davis Cup team did not require two doubles specialists on the team and his inability to renew his partnership with Leander Paes on the ATP Tour.
Bhupathi has been without a steady partner through this year and believes doubles specialists are difficult to find.
The Bangalore ace said since there is less chance of him pairing with Paes on the ATP Tour in the coming months, since his former partner was committed to the Czech Republic's Martin Damm, it would not give the duo a reasonable chance of winning a medal at Olympics-level competitions.
Paes, however, in a statement on Tuesday night, was hopeful of Bhupathi changing his decision.
'As the Indian Davis Cup captain, Mahesh has a place on my team, and as previously agreed upon, I hope we do play the Asian Games, Davis Cup and Olympics 2008 for India together,' said Paes.
The statements have been flowing back and forth. Bhupathi has his reasons for making such a big decision, but the question is whether they are sound enough to give up the honour of playing for the country?
Has the 32 year old played his last match for India? Will the AITA be able to convince him to change his decision?