Moya hails Somdev's un-Indian game

Chennai:

Spain's tennis star Carlos Moya, who was stunned by Somdev Devvarman on Thursday in the Chennai Open, says India's rising star was armed with a strong game and predicted that he will soon break into the top 100.

Somdev defeated the two-time champion here in the second round to set up a quarter-final clash against big serving Croat Ivo Carlovic.

"He does not play typical Indian style of tennis. He has a serve and volley game and is bestowed with sending down aces well. He has the potential to be in the top 100 in the near future," Moya told reporters after the shock defeat.

Moya said Somdev played solid tennis and did not let him cash in on the chances that came his way.

"I had seen him play two days ago. He moves very fast on the court and is a solid hitter of the ball. These were big surprises for me and I was not able to covert my chances into points. It is a question of converting chances and winning your match," Moya said.

The Spaniard, a former French Open champion, said Somdev's current 202 ranking belies the level of game he plays.

"I do not know whether it is a big loss for me. He plays better than his ranking shows but one has to assess his growth in the Tour this season," Moya said.