The much-awaited reunion of Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi might not be restricted to the Athens Olympics but could go on further.
Seven-time tennis Grand Slam champion Mahesh Bhupathi did not rule put playing with Paes even after the Olympic Games starting in August.
Asked whether he intended to continue his partnership with Paes after the Olympics, Bhupathi said "we will decide that after Athens. Our relations have improved since last year, (it is better) than what it was in 2002."
The 29-year old doubles specialist took exception to legendary Ramanathan Krishnan doubting the chances of the former number one pair winning a medal at Athens.
"I don't think it is fair for someone of his experience to sit and make such comments," Bhupathi said.
"Myself and Paes are both in the top twenties (of ATP Doubles Entry ranking). We know how important the Olympics is for the country. We think we can succeed. It doesn't matter what anybody else says."
Krishnan had said that the duo might end up without winning a medal in Athens as they were getting older and had not played together in the circuit "for some time now".
On his injury and playing the French Open, he said the three days' time that he has before the doubles competition begins on Wednesday, would be "enough to get back into shape".
"I'm now feeling much better. I am working out in the gym but haven't yet returned to the courts. I'll hit the court in Bangalore tomorrow before flying out for France the same night."
