Leander Paes, 41, will play with Martina Hingis in mixed doubles at the Australian Open and also has a new partner for men's doubles in Raven Klaasen. Klaasen will be Paes' 99th partner.
Paes, who teamed with Radek Stepanek for two seasons but is no longer in the Top 20, said he chooses players who combine well with his game. "I want him to have my weaknesses as his strengths. Raven has world-class backhand and big serves, which is a big plus for our partnership," said the eight-time Grand Slam champion during his appearance for the International Tennis Premier League.
The South African Klaasen is ranked No. 20 in doubles, won five titles with Eric Butorac. He said Paes had approached him a couple of months ago, and he decided to switch only reluctantly since he's good friends with Butorac. The new doubles team is expected to play a warm-up event before the season's first Grand Slam.
Paes has not chosen who he will play with for his 100th partner. "Many players have expressed interest in being my 100th partner," he said. "I've spoken to Novak Djokovic also, he's very keen. Let's see who ultimately becomes my 100th partner."