Maintaining world ranking priority: Sania

Sania Mirza on Tuesday said she expected a tough season ahead and indicated that her priority was to ensure that her WTA ranking did not slip further this year.

"I just want to stay at the ranking that I am," the 19-year-old told reporters after her first round victory at the USD 175,000 Bangalore Open.

"Second year is much harder than the first year. Every year, things are getting harder. I just try to give my best. I will do my job." In the latest WTA rankings, Sania's world ranking slipped from 32 to 38.

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The Hyderabadi admitted that Indian sportspersons were under tremendous pressure while performing at home because of huge expectations.

"When you play cricket in India, it's very hard too," she said. "It's hard for any athlete to play at home. So many people watch," Sania said but added "you have to come through the pressure."