Tursunov Turns Entertainer on Gabby Logan Radio Show

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Russian star Dmitry Tursunov has become famous throughout the world of tennis almost as much for his tales on tour as his results on the court.

Described as the “Richard Prior of Blogging,” for his regular features on ATPtennis.com, the World No. 24 spent time away from his 2007 Artois Championships preparation to talk to BBC Radio Five Live’s Gabby Logan on Saturday morning.

Logan opened the show by saying she wanted someone from the Artois Championships to give her an insight into tennis, and what she got was someone who spent time blogging and gossiping, which she described as being “right up my street.”

“We’ll do anything for money, so you can have me for the rest of the week if you want,” joked Tursunov, whose quick wit and dark sense of humour had Logan laughing throughout the interview.

Tursunov’s blog has been more popular among fans than either Roger Federer’s or Rafael Nadal’s, and when asked about it by Logan, the American-based Russian replied: “Blonds have more fun, right?” However, he admitted that without wanting to risk the wrath of his fellow professionals, “there’s a fine line between gossip and saying something that’s private to the other players.”

The 24-year-old, who is making his fourth appearance at The Queen’s Club having reached the quarterfinals last year before losing to Britain’s Tim Henman, talked to Logan about dancing in the shower, his knowledge of all things Scottish, and the presenter’s rugby playing husband, Kenny Logan. “I hear rugby players are not very well…endowed,” he laughed.

Logan also pointed out to listeners that Tursunov was particularly distracted when travel presenter Lynsey Horne entered the room. “Why is she naked?” Tursunov asked.

Click here to listen to the full interview on The Gabby Logan Show