Tennis commentator and former player Vijay Amritraj was recently in New Delhi to announce a partnership between Roland Garros and Rolex. I served him a rapid-fire questionnaire on travel and tennis. By Mitrajit Bhattacharya
It’s time for Wimbledon again. Let’s talk about great rivalries. Björn Borg or John McEnroe?
Both geniuses. Borg did it one way, McEnroe another. Talent wise, McEnroe. But Borg [was] a better athlete.
Roger Federer or Rafael Nadal?
Roger has won more majors; Rafa has beaten him a greater number of times—hard to pick between the two. But because Roger plays the modern version of yesterday’s tennis, I would feel more comfortable saying Roger.
Emerging player of the year?
I have to go with [Stefanos] Tsitsipas. He plays with a great deal of variety.
Which do you consider the biggest win of your career?
Beating Rod Laver in the US Open in 1973.
Things on your bucket list?
A safari. I am trying to decide between the one in Masai Mara and a South African safari. My wife and I haven’t been to Israel together, so I would like to make that trip with her. And one or two countries in South America.
Where do you prefer to go: big city or the countryside?
I like to go to smaller cities that have things to do. I enjoy my golf, going to the movies and sidewalk cafes. That’s why I enjoy Paris, but not the hustle and bustle of a big city like New York.
Things you don’t travel without?
The watch on my hand—my Rolex has stayed with me for nearly 50 years now—and photographs of my family and friends.
Favourite Indian food?
Food from any state is a big positive for me. But having grown up in Madras (former name of Chennai), I can eat dosas, idlis and other South India dishes all day long.
You’re a movie buff. Who’s your favourite star?
Meeting [Clint] Eastwood was an important moment for me.
Favourite movie and director?
The Sound Of Music, and I love the way Ridley Scott directed.
You had a brief stint in Hollywood too. Any fond memories from those days?
I have the best memories of doing Octopussy and meeting Roger [Moore]. That role was my first one. I ended up doing a Star Trek movie after that and I was the first Indian on American TV with my own series. It’s special to me—there is hardly anybody who has done a Star Trek movie and a James Bond movie and played on the Centre Court in Wimbledon.
Related: Explore Australia Through The Eyes Of Tennis Star Rohan Bopanna!
