New Delhi, Nov. 5 -- Former Indian tennis player Mahesh Bhupathi has called for a robust system to develop tennis in the country, stressing that hosting international tournaments would serve little purpose unless Indian players could capitalise on these opportunities to compete and succeed at the highest level.

Bhupathi and Sania Mirza, who were elected to the All India Tennis Association (AITA) General Body as representatives of sportspersons of outstanding merit (SOM), were also elected to the association's Executive Committee on Thursday.

Speaking to ANI, Bhupathi called for a structured system to develop Indian tennis players, stressing that hosting international tournaments would be meaningful only if domestic players could use the...