Rafael Nadal Says no to Partnering Leander Paes 'Anytime Soon'

Rafael Nadal's Indian connections are numerous. He is not only part of the Indian Aces franchise in the International Premier Tennis League but also runs a charitable institution for underprivileged kids in Andhra Pradesh. (Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal Ready to Enthrall Delhi Fans in International Premier Tennis League Clash)

The world No. 5 singles player only strengthened the bond when he partnered India's most successful tennis player Leander Paes at the Paris Masters in November. In doing so, he became Paes' 106th doubles partner. (Leander Paes to Partner Rafael Nadal at Paris Masters)

But the two could not go beyond the first round as they lost 3-6, 4-6 to Dominic Inglot of Great Britain and Sweden's Robert Lindstedt.

However, fans will not be able to see the pair together anytime soon as Nadal made it clear that his priority is singles now.

"I don't play doubles often. Not playing with Leander anytime soon," Nadal said, on the sidelines of conducting a coaching clinic for kids in the Capital on Thursday.

A Year to forget for Nadal

Regarding his personal form on the professional circuit, Nadal admitted that he wasn't in top form for most part of the year. The year saw Nadal failing to win a single Grand Slam for the first time in a decade.

But his entry into the ATP Tour Finals last-four stage has given him confidence for the upcoming season. He also entered the final of two ATP events in the last three months

"The year 2015 wasn't my best, but I am happy with the way I played for the last three months. I hope to begin 2016 with that sane form and attitude," Nadal said, adding that he has fully recovered from the ankle injury that troubled him for most part of the year.

Firing on all cylinders for Indian Aces

Nadal was part Indian Aces' fixtures in the Manila leg of the IPTL from December 6-8, in which the team won one match and lost one. The 14-time Grand Slam winner is here to play in the IPTL and his team's first match of the Indian leg is on Thursday.

"I have enjoyed playing in the IPTL so far, Manila is a venue I have not played in a lot, so enjoyed the experience," he said.

"I thank the kids for coming here (at the tennis clinic). I request them to cheer the Indian Aces."

Nadal is also likely to face Roger Federer on Saturday. Federer is part of UAE Royals franchise.

He added that India had a special place in his heart. "India is close to my heart. A wing of my federation works here in Anantapur (Andhra Pradesh). I am happy to be here and a part of IPTL," Nadal said at the RK Khanna Tennis Complex.

He had some word of encouragement for Indian tennis too. "India have great potential in tennis," Nadal said.

India's highest ranked men's player is Yuki Bhambri at No. 93. Barring Sania Mirza (in doubles), Indian women virtually have no recognition world-wide.

(With inputs from Suprita Das)