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3/18/09 8:03 AM | Johan Lindahl
Israeli Andy Ram is prepared to put up with his own version of security hell in hopes of returning as a doubles player at the Barclays Dubai Championships in 2010.
The Uruguayan-born player was allowed into the UAE at the last minute on a "special invitation"
but was under heavy guard throughout his brief stay in the emirate.
The 29-year-old only received his letter allowing him to enter the Gulf country as he waited to catch a flight in Paris. Once arrived, he was surrounded by up to 15 bodyguards.
In the hotel, the six rooms around his were kept empty, with guards posted at his own door and elsewhere around the grounds. He was not allowed out except to go to the tournament and his vehicle and routing was changed every day.
Perhaps fortunately, Ram's sojourn lasted only one round as he Kevin Ullyett were beaten by Marat Safin and David Ferrer.
Ram still says he's keen to return to the country where anti-Israeli feeling is strong due to the January bombing of Gaza, which killed 1,300 mainly civilian victims.
"Next year it will be easier," insisted Ram, who was allowed in after compatriot Shahar Peer was refused entry to the women's event which proceeded the ATP week.
The first Israeli sportsman to compete in Dubai added: "It's going to open the door for many other athletes, not only Israelis in Dubai but a player from China who wants to play in Taipei or a guy from Serbia who wants to go to Croatia.
"Maybe Andy Ram is a small athlete, but what I did was something very big".
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"Maybe Andy Ram is a small athlete, but what I did was something very big"
ROFL
orion , 3/18/09 2:29 PM