Mobile ESPN’s Bhagya L Ayyavoo speaks to Somdev DevBurman ahead of his Aptos Challenger event in California starting today.

Bhagya: After making such a rousing start to the season, your form has been very erratic especially with respect to your conversion rate. Any reason why?

Somdev: I have been losing a lot of close matches and definitely and I am just struggling a bit to convert my opportunities. Guess I just need to string a couple of wins together to get things back on track. (Somdev plays wildcard Lester Cook of the US in California today)

BA: Are the high expectations taking its toll on you?

SD: Not at all. I am focussing on my tennis and I don’t pay attention to expectations.

BA: Where would you rank Davis Cup in your current priority?

SD: I’ve always said Davis Cup is my top priority. I have always wanted to play and win for India.
 
BA: The break is yet to come in a Major championship. You played the qualifying rounds at the French Open and the Wimbledon. It’s been so close, yet so far. With the last Grand Slam (US Open) being you favourite surface, how do you see your chances?

SD: I need to prepare well for the US hardcourt season. I have always enjoyed playing in the US summer. I am really looking forward to the US Open qualifiers and hopefully I will make the finals.

BA: After formidable wins over Top-50 and Top-100 players at the Chennai Open, you had struggled against players of your age and ranking. Have they taken bigger strides than you, where do you think you have missed out there?

SD: Neither. I think it’s just been a case of me not being able to convert my opportunities and a few off days.

BA: How different will your approach to the second half of the season be now? Will you continue playing the Challenger events or shift focus to the ATP Tour events?

SD: I will play a mix of both.
 
BA: The government has sanctioned big bucks to the Sports Ministry in the Union budget for this year and as well as Commonwealth Games in 2010. How do you see the new improved facilities and infrastructure having an impact on the talent in the country?

SD: I can only answer this question once I have seen the new infrastructure. I think having competent manpower is perhaps equally important than to have new stadiums.
 
BA: For a player who practices abroad and enjoys good training and exposure, how do you compare the Indian standards and what do you think are the immediate requirements ahead of the Commonwealth Games?

SD: The standards in India have improved, but there still a long way to go for us. I think the Indian athletes who are medal prospects should be given more support and funding.
 
BA: Now that you have spent some time in the ATP circuit since turning pro last year, do you see more Indian players making this level?

SD: Players have to be given more support and opportunities and also make them more accountable. The only way up is through hard work and doing so with a plan. I think we need to get more specialists in the field of fitness and strength as that is where we lack.