Rohan and I make a good team: Qureshi

Pakistan's Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi on Monday said he was looking forward to repeat his ATP Tour's successes alongside Indian partner Rohan Bopanna when the duo play in the U S Open Grand Slam tennis beginning later this month.

Qureshi teamed up with Bopanna to win three doubles titles in Segovia, Spain, Manchester and Nottingham in recent weeks in ATP tournaments.

"We have understood each other's game very well and we compliment each other. Rohan and I make a good team, no doubt about that," Qureshi said.

"If we play to the best of our abilities with understanding we can do well in the U S Open and I am confident about that," said the player, who returned to a hero's welcome at his home town Lahore.

The Pakistan's top tennis player was garlanded and received with flags and banners by the Lahorians, appreciating his fine show on the international tennis circuit, but the youngster insisted he was just starting to get a feel of top level competition.

Qureshi said pairing up with Bopanna had made him realise his full potential and he had learnt a lot from playing at the top level in recent months.

"He is very good at getting you to give your best in pressure situations. I enjoy playing with him," he said.

Qureshi said Bopanna and he would take part in a warm up ATP tournament prior to the US Open where the challenge would be tough. "We also plan to play in the Bombay Open after the US Open," he added.

Qureshi, whose mother Nousheen was a national women's champion, said he was proud to be finally being given some respect and recognition on the ATP circuit.

"I would be the happiest man if I can manage to break into the top 100 rankings this year. I have made progress in the doubles event but have yet to make proper strides in the singles."

He became the first Pakistani in 31 years to qualify for the main rounds of the singles event at the Wimbledon this year before losing to Russian Marin Safin in the second round.

He had also paired up with Israel's Aamir Hadad a few years ago to reach the third round of the Wimbledon Championship.