Paradorn Srichaphan with Novak Djokovic at the Thailand Open 2008 final
Plagued by injury for almost two years, Thai tennis ace Paradorn Srichaphan is eyeing a switch to motorsport to rediscover his competitive edge.
The former world no. 9 has been busy promoting the sport in his home country and admits he is considering ditching his racket to race fast cars and motorcycles.
"I've been really bored and it would be huge challenge to move from one sport to the next," Paradorn said.The 29-year-old has been off the court since December 2006 after a recurrent wrist injury.
"I'm involved in a racing team and my sponsors are interested in having me racing for them, but only when I retire from tennis. I still plan to return to the tour."
However, his marriage to former Miss Universe Natalie Glebova, who was recently seen on The Amazing Race Asia season 3, ensured he never disappeared from the limelight at home as his dwindling career took a nose-dive.
Unlike many Thai sportsmen, Paradorn has resisted the temptation to become a singer or television actor and believes motorsport, at domestic level at least, is where his future lies.
"In Thailand, motorsport is getting bigger and bigger. I love the sport, bikes and cars, and I'm not bad at it," said a suited, lean-looking Paradorn, who no longer has his muscled physique.(Via Reuters)
"When I watch the other (tennis) players I wish it was me, I miss the thrill of the competition.
"In the long term I need something else and I'm not ruling out getting behind the wheel of a fast car or riding a bike."
