New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS): Tennis player Somdev Devvarman said there is always pressure to perform when playing in India.

"There is always pressure to perform. If you are an Indian athlete, then you are liable to a lot of negative press. No matter what you do, there is always pressure to perform in India. That's just the way it is," said Devvarman, who will be playing in the Davis Cup World Group Playoff this weekend, here on Tuesday.

"There is an upside to that as well. We perform well, we are welcomed very nicely. This is something we have been experiencing for the past few years, it is at the back of the mind."

India will take on World No.1 Czech Republic from September 18 to 20 at the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association (DLTA) complex. With a win, the hosts will elevate to the elite World Group.

"We are improving for sure. Even I am getting better every time I play. Our team is definitely getting stronger. Hopefully, we will be able to get this tie and give ourselves a good shot at the World Group," said Devvarman.