Tennis idol Mark Philippousses serves at a sizzling 146 mph, a power that has earned him the nickname ‘The Scud’. Soft-spoken and with a hard-to-resist charm, this Aussie of Greek origin volleys with Meenakshi Doctor

Childhood: A happy one, growing up in Melbourne.

Family: I’m lucky to have a very loving and supportive family. My father is of Greek origin and my mother, Italian, but my sister and I were born and brought up in Australia, so that is home to me.

Boris Becker: As a kid, I loved the way he played tennis, and especially admired his serve and volley game. But I wouldn’t say that he’s inspired me in my game today.

Power Tennis: It is here to stay, because people can’t play the way they used to 30 years ago. I’m against the game being slowed down by using heavier balls and making slower courts. I think tennis should be left alone.

Women In Tennis: It’s impressive to see how the Williams sisters (Venus and Serena) are dominating the game today.

Equal Prize Money For Women: Oh, that is really a controversial subject. I’d rather not comment on it!

Ferraris: I love the car for the way it handles speed and the amazing adrenalin rush it gives me. They are about having fun. We work very hard on court, and there has to be some fun at the end of it all.

His tattoo: The tattoo on my upper left arm is of Alexander the Great and it reflects my Greek heritage. Alexander is a great symbol of strength because no matter what the odds against him were, he never gave up. I’m very lucky in my life today, and have no regrets.

But maybe in tennis, because of my recent injuries, I haven’t been the luckiest guy on the tour, but I won’t give up. I’m going to keep fighting. My tattoo is a reminder of strength, determination and courage.

India: I was excited about coming here — I didn’t know what to expect. I love the people. Indian women have the most incredibly beautiful eyes!

Madras: Unfortunately, when we play tennis, we rarely have the time to enjoy the city we are in. It’s just that there’s little opportunity to get distracted from our main purpose for being here, which is playing tennis.

Poverty: It doesn’t bother me. If at all, it makes me aware of how lucky I am and the people in Australia are. Sometimes, people I know get upset because they can’t buy an expensive car, and you feel like telling them to shut up because their problems are so small in comparison to that of millions of others.

Wimbledon: It’s definitely a title I want to win some day... And I will. But to be honest, of all the grand slams, the one I really want to win the most is the Australian Open.

On Not Winning A Grand Slam Yet: It doesn’t bother me. I’m only 26, and I’m going to get stronger. I think by 28, I will definitely win a big title. Watch this space!

Food: I love Japanese, Indian and Chinese food a lot. I used to be the kind of guy who would just jump into the car and get something to eat, but these days, I actually go to the supermarket and buy groceries and make stir-fried food and rice. It actually doesn’t taste too bad at all. And the kitchen is still standing at the end of it, which is good!

Red Wine: My favourite is Japanese plum wine. I have a sweet tooth, so I prefer red wine to any other drink.

The Fans: Any support is great. Especially when you’ve had surgery and fans send you get-well-soon cards. It’s great to think people care about you.

Being An Inspiration: I never used to think of myself as one. But when kids write in and tell you how much you have inspired them, you have to live your life with a lot more responsibility. You think before you do things because you are a role model. I don’t drink anything apart from red wine, I don’t do drugs and I don’t smoke.

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