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Tennis Spy takes a look at India's latest sporting hero Somdev Devvarman, who became a legend in his home country after leading them to a first Davis Cup World Group berth in 11 years.

Full name: Somdev Devvarman

Nationality: Indian (born Assam, lives Charlottesville, USA)

Age: 24 (DOB February 13, 1985)

Career Highlights: Reached final of Chennai Open in January, beating twice champion Carlos Moya and Ivo Karlovic before falling at final hurdle to Marin Cilic in two tight sets. Also reached second round of US Open in Grand Slam debut, after coming through qualifying. Reached quarter-finals in Washington 2008, beating Taylor Dent and Robert Kendrick before losing to Russian Igor Kunitsyn. Led India back into the Davis Cup World Group with five-sets win over Rik de Voest in Johannesburg.

General: Turned pro 2008, moving an incredible 793 places up world rankings during the year, starting at 1033 and finishing 204. Has further improved ranking and currently at 129, just two places short of his career-high 127. Enjoyed very successful college career in the States, winning consecutive NCAA titles, beating John Isner in 2007 final for first title. Member of India Davis Cup team.

Strengths: Proved he has big-match mentality, by recovering from two sets down against De Voest to win Davis Cup World Group play-off tie in Johannesburg, despite being up against vociferous crowd supporting South Africa. Quick around the court and smacks winners off both wings if he gets into the point.

Weaknesses: Serve is temperamental, with just 42 aces in 10 matches this year and producing 18 double faults. But when he gets the ball into play he is pretty successful, winning 79 per cent of service games. Return also needs working on, in particular off first serve off which he currently wins just 28 per cent of points.

Prospects: Has enjoyed successful first 12 months as pro on ATP Tour, quickly establishing himself as sports-mad India's top-ranked male player. Enjoyed bright start to Grand Slam career by reaching second round on Flushing Meadows debut. Needs to work on return of serve but has gritty presence that sees him grind out matches. Could do worse than look to similarly-sized Lleyton Hewitt (both 5'11"), the master of wearing opponents down even when things are not going his way.

Personal: Grew up near Chennai before attending University of Virginia from 2005-08. Earned sociology degree in May 2008 and turned pro that summer. Captured back-to-back NCAA singles titles in 2007 (d. Georgia's John Isner) and 2008 (d. Tennessee's J.P. Smith) and earned All-American honors both times. Listens to Dave Matthews Band and plays music himself.

Pippa Davis / Eurosport