ISLAMABAD: Former world No 65 Spain’s Pere Riba who is on a comeback trail following seven months of absence from international circuit, finds Pakistan not only a safe place but a tennis venue which offers full of competitive opportunities and a chance to him to get back to top hundred. In an exclusive interview with The News at the PTF Complex where Riba marched into the semis following his hard fought 6-4, 6-4 win against Pakistan’s Samir Iftikhar, he said he had almost shelved his plans for coming over to Pakistan following wrong impression given to him in Spain. “I have just recovered from long injury that kept me out of international circuit for almost seven months. Pakistan Future Tennis I is my first international tournament after reentering the circuit. I picked Pakistan circuit as I feel in a good weather condition would be perfect stage to kick start my reentry into top tennis. I had almost cancelled my plans to travel to Pakistan as I was given impression that the country was not save to play tennis. What I have seen after landing here was a complete contrast.” He said the country was not only safe to play tennis it also provided him opportunity to make reentry into international circuit in a better way. “I am happy that I made a perfect decision of going ahead with my plans of travelling to Pakistan and competing here. Around 25 foreign players are here and finding myself as a part of them is indeed gives me pleasure. Pakistan seems be a safe a country as there is any other European country. I don’t know why this misconception has been hatched and why wrong impression was given to me.” Riba had all praise for Pakistan people, saying they are friendly and forthcoming. “The one week I have spent here is enough to create an impression that tennis environment is equal to best available anywhere and people are so friendly that they are ready to help you and guide you.” The Spaniard who is here with his coach has already appeared in the main draws of Grand Slam and was eager to get back to a position where he was six months back. “After recovering from injury I have been training at the Barcelona Academy which is being run privately. Now I feel I am in a position to restart my efforts to climb on the ranking list.” Riba praised facilities on offer here, saying that the host federation is dealing with the arrangements professionally. “I am happy to see arrangements and tennis playing environments. Everything has been dealt with professionally.”The Spaniard hoped that three international Futures at a trot would help Pakistan players in the long run.
