The Hindu : Sport / Tennis : Nadal confirms Chennai Open participation

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Wednesday, Oct 24, 2007
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Nadal confirms Chennai Open participation

Sports Reporter

Chennai: World No. 2 Rafael Nadal confirmed his participation for the 2008 Chennai Open ATP tennis tournament which will take place in Chennai from December 31, 2007, to January 6, 2008. The triple French Open champion will be making his third appearance in the $4,16,000 event,.

In the 2007 edition, the Spaniard had made it to the semifinals before losing to eventual champion Xavier Malisse.

“It feels great to be coming back to Chennai. I like the crowd and their enthusiasm and support and they always push you to give your best. I lost in the semifinals last time and I hope to win my first Chennai Open title this year. I had some injuries this year but I am confident that I would make a good start to the New Year and improve my performance, playing in this tournament,” said the World No. 2.

Nadal’s first appearance in the event was in 2004, when he lost to Frenchman Thierry Ascione in the first round. He did well in the doubles that year, winning the title with Tommy Robredo (also of Spain). He confirmed his participation for the 2006 edition but was forced to pull-out due to an injury.

“Rafa is a special player and his confirmation at such an early stage re-affirms the popularity and importance that the Chennai Open has gathered in the ATP men’s tour. He is very eager to improve on his performance here and I am sure Chennai will get to watch some spectacular tennis action from this Grand Slam Champion this year,” said Tournament Director Fernando Soler.

“Rafael Nadal has always been a big draw at Chennai and this year too he will have the crowd in raptures,” said Balu Nayar, Managing Director, IMG India.

The tournament will be taking place for the 12th successive year in the city.

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