Sania Mirza had an important statement to say on her return from the Australian Open Championship where she won the mixed doubles title with Mahesh Bhupathi. `` I feel like it's a second career,'' the Hyderabad player said.

Having being sidelined for the most part of last year because of injuries, Sania's ranking dipped to a new low. The wrist injury was painful and worrisome. ``I couldn't lift even a pin. It almost pushed me into depression,” she said. “It was scary. It was career threatening. I was almost going through depression. I think the post-injury period is more difficult to cope with and I am happy to be back. But I never doubted that I cannot make a comeback.''

Sania underwent surgery in the US but that did not help her much. She still suffered pain and the doctors suggested a second surgery. This forced her to further delay a comeback to courts. As admitted by Sania, it was frustrating and very depressing sight to be indoors. Finally, Test cricketer Yuvraj Singh came to the help of Sania by recommending a doctor who had helped him immensely.

Yuvraj had been treated by Jatin Choudhary, who by applying spiral therapy healed his injury in a very short period. In fact, Yuvraj made a speedy recovery after he was out of action for a knee injury. Sania met Dr Choudhary and she recovered very quickly.  ``He did a miracle,'' admitted Sania, who was back in action by December.

 Sania was relieved she could hit the ball more freely and confidently. ``There was no more pain,'' said Sania. The Indian tennis ace immediately acknowledged the services of Choudhary. She even SMS-ed him after winning her first Grand Slam title. ``I owe my return to Dr Choudhary,'' she said.

Sania , whose ranking has slipped, feels this year would be a crucial one. The Aussie Open title means a lot to her and, clearly, her decision to team up with Mahesh Bhupathi was the best thing to happen. ``What better can I ask?...I have known him for long. He boosts my confidence in a lot of different ways,'' she said the other day.

The top ranked India says she is hitting the ball really well. ``I feel I'm playing well. It will look brighter from now.''

Even experts like former Davis Cupper SP Misra feel so. “She is fit again. I loved the way she attacked the ball at the Australian Open. This is good news for Indian tennis. I always felt only an injury can prevent Sania playing good tennis,'' said Misra.