I want to be in top-50 in next three years: Somdev

Indian tennis stars have over the last decade consistently achieved glory at the highest level. There are many memorable moments, but few as cherished as the recent Davis Cup triumph.

Somdev Devvarman's mauling of the South African team not only gave India a berth in the World Group, but also earned the US-based ace a lot of respect and popularity.

"After winning that match Leander called to congratulate me. But it's time to move on. Now our focus is on the Davis Cup World Group match against Russia early next year. We were going to pool a tough team and we had to play a seeded team," said Devvarman in Mumbai on Thursday.

"We are playing Russia in Russia. It will be cold as hell, but I legitimately think we have a shot in Moscow. Our doubles team is going to have to win. Rohan (Bopanna) can play really good tennis. He just took a set off Fernando Gonzalez, so we all know he can play; and I can play now and then too.

"I have had some really good matches against the guys in the top-20. So, on a given day, I can compete with these guys if not beat them. And fitness is not an issue; so five sets won't be a problem for me," he added.

Talking about India chances, Devvarman, who made his Davis Cup debut for India last February, said, "They [the Russians] are a stronger team on paper, they are supposed to win. But we have seen stranger things happen in sport. I'm surely excited to be out there and give ourselves a good shot."

The 24-year-old was optimistic about India staying in the World Group.

"Every match will be tough. We will just have to approach each match in the right way. If we can come up with a good win, and all of us are healthy, we can stay in the World Group for a while," he said.

Currently ranked 124, Devvarman has experienced good fortune over the last 12 months. Reaching the Chennai Open final, at the beginning of the year, saw the Chennai-bred lad stride from oblivion to the heights of fame.

Summing up the year, he said, "The last year has been great. It's been an emotional roller-coaster. The highs and lows are very short. One day you go out and have a big win, qualify for a Grand Slam and you are on a high, and the next day, if you lose, no one cares.

"You have to get over the highs and lows quick; you have to go out and take whatever you can from that experience."

Living a life of a nomad, having to travel week-in and week-out, can be draining emotionally and Devvarman has one true companion: his guitar.

"I play the guitar often, before dinner, before I hit the bed at night. During tournaments I don't practice that much, so I get more time to play between matches. Playing the guitar is therapeutic," said Devvarman, a fan of popular American group The Dave Mathews Band.

Currently under the guidance of coach Scot McCain, Devvarman has set his sights on a spot in the top 50 in the next three years.

"I can only get better on hard courts in the coming season and I know I can do better on clay and grass. My coach, Scot McCain, has 20 years of experience behind him. Working with him will help me shape into a more versatile and complete player," he said.

The first Indian to win the prestigious US collegiate tennis title -- he won it for the second consecutive year in 2008 -- Devvarman also spoke his mind about doing his bit for society.

"I would like to give back to tennis as well as to the country. But I'm just starting out and don't want to get too carried away. Sometimes I need to watch where my feet are, not get too big for my boots. I have an opportunity to influence, motivate and help kids and make a difference, and at the end of the day that is what really matters."