Medibank International Sydney Tennis - Australian Open Series

Sydney focus for Argentine star

Monday 24 November 2008 Comments

Passionate Argentine Davis Cup star and world No. 11 David Nalbandian believes the Medibank International Sydney is the key to a successful Australian Open and 2009 season.

Nalbandian, who has just come off the Davis Cup final in which Argentina went down 3-1 to Spain, will compete in the Medibank International Sydney in January for the first time.

“The Medibank International has always been a strong tournament and I know it is going to be strong again in January but I hope to do my best. It will be great to start the season of with a win,” said Nalbandian.

Nalbandian has played in Sydney before but January will be his debut in the Medibank International.

“I am looking forward to playing in Sydney again. I have been there for Davis Cup (in 2005) but I have not played the tournament. I know the stadium so it should be great going back there,” continued Nalbandian.

“Sydney is a great city. I am looking forward to starting the New Year at the Medibank International. Other players have told me they have a good time at the tournament.”

Medibank International Tournament Director Craig Watson believes Nalbandian’s fiery spirit will add to the excitement of the event.

“Nalbandian certainly plays the game with a fair amount of passion, which is guaranteed to enliven the crowds.”

“He has an interesting history at the Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre and with Australia’s number one Lleyton Hewitt, so we are looking forward to both players taking to our courts come January.”

The 26-year-old has won nine career singles titles, including the 2005 season-ending Masters Cup when he upset world No. 1 Roger Federer. He was also runner up at Wimbledon in 2002, when he went down to Hewitt. In 2008, Nalbandian has won titles in Buenos Aires and Stockholm.

Tags: David Nalbandian

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