New Delhi: Tennis sensation Sania Mirza's decision not to play in India came in for sharp criticism from stalwart Leander Paes, who said nobody was greater than the game and playing in front of own fans was the greatest joy for any athlete.
Paes, the seven time grand slam winner and the current Davis Cup captain, said controversies were part and parcel of a sports person's life and one has to learn to tackle it.
"Look at every celebrity, who does not have controversies. We all have adversities. Every celebrity has adversities in their lives. It's how dignified and honest you are. It's about how you project yourself and how you handle them," Paes said, reacting to Tennis sensation Sania Mirza's decision not to play in India.
Paes, who has an estranged relationship with Mahesh Bhupathi, whose Globosport company manages Sania's career, said that no individual was greater than the game.
"I do not want to get into it. I am not bothered but the greatest joy for any athlete is to play for the country and in the country and play for the people. Nobody is greater than the game. That is something Sania has to be careful about it," Paes told reporters after the practice session of the Davis Cup team at the National Sports Club of India here.
Former Davis Cup captain Naresh Kumar also criticised Sania's decision to pull out, terming it as "juvenile and immature" one.
"It is a sad decision. It is an immature and juvenile decision. It is going to affect her game more and get her more controversies. We cannot get a player like Sania", Naresh said.
"They are saying that she will not play in the country for some time. But won't there be controversies when she plays again," he added.
Mahesh Bhupathi, who is part of the Davis Cup team for the tie against Uzbekistan from Friday, showed up for the practice session in the morning but did not comment on the matter.
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