Abdul Mohi Shah ISLAMABAD: Former world No 65 Pere Riba (Spain), who is on a comeback trail following an absence of seven months from international circuit, Thursday said that Pakistan is not only a safe place but a tennis venue which offers 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 semi-finals following his hard fought 6-4, 6-4 win against Pakistan’s Samir Iftikhar, he said he had almost shelved his plans for coming to Pakistan following negative 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 Futures Tennis I is my first international tournament after re-entering the circuit. I picked Pakistan circuit as I feel 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 an impression that the country was not safe to play. What I have seen after landing here was a completely contrasting situation.” He added that Pakistan 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 indeed gives me pleasure. Pakistan seems to be a safe country like any other European country. I don’t know why this misconception is growing up and why wrong impression was given to me.” Riba heaped praise on Pakistani people, saying that they are friendly and forthcoming. “The week I have spent here is enough to create an impression that tennis environment in Pakistan is equal to the 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 also lauded facilities on offer here, saying that the host federation is dealing with the arrangements professionally. “I am happy to see arrangements and tennis playing environment. Everything has been dealt with professionally.”The Spaniard hoped that three international Futures at a trot would help Pakistan players in the long run. “Playing against top players always helps you and I feel that some of the budding local players would learn a lot after competing against the best.”Riba was eager to return back to Pakistan next year for international Futures. “I would love to come back and play circuit events again.”
