He calls the tour ‘hectic’ and laments about neglecting his family. But Carlos Moya can’t think of giving Chennai a miss. The top seed and the World No. 5 says that he owes it to the city as ‘‘being a champion it’s not right to keep away’’. Having completed a brilliant year, which includes being the only player to take a set off Roger Federer, the 28-year-old has his plan well set for the coming season: improving his ranking.

Moya spoke on various topics as he got ready to defend his title:

How important is the Chennai Open in your schedule?

It’s the beginning of the season. Cautiousness is the key and much depends on the first two matches, though I’ve been playing well.

Has the tsunami affected your concentration by any chance?

The news was disturbing, but once ATP gave the go-ahead and the tournament director gave an assurance, it calmed things.

Spain’s victory in the Davis Cup...how was the feeling?

That memory will never fade. Particularly after I missed the first of Spain’s two wins due to an injury in 2000 against Australia. It was a dream come true. The total dependency on me made me more focused and I would like to carry on the way I signed off the 2004 season.

What’s the difference between winning the Davis Cup and a Grand Slam?

Totally different, the home and away factor in the Davis Cup is exciting. Home — like in our case in 2004 Sevilla — it was a fanatical 27,000 strong support that you had to please. Grand Slams, well, it’s you and not the nation that you play for.

How good has 2004 been compared to the rest of your career?

It’s been very comfortable. Playing the Masters Cup was good, while the Davis Cup gave me the confidence.

Do you support the need of technological aids for the game?