Date:03/01/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/01/03/stories/2009010357021700.htm

Sport - Tennis

A satisfying year for Wawrinka

Nandita Sridhar

— Photo: S.S. Kumar

OPTIMISTIC: Stanislas Wawrinka, practising at the Nungambakkam Tennis Stadium on Friday, hopes to make a good impression at the Chennai Open.

Chennai: Stanislas Wawrinka was allowed just a brief release from countryman Roger Federer’s shadow after his hour-long practice session at the Nungambakkam Tennis Stadium. Questions on Federer took little time to surface, but Wawrinka, aware of his countryman’s role in his career growth, was happy to oblige.

The 23-year-old Swiss enjoyed a successful 2008, which saw him break into the top 10 and claim the Olympics doubles gold with Federer, which he revealed was the highlight of the year.

“The last season has been satisfying for me. I broke into the top 10 in June but slipped after that.

“The high point of the year was winning the Olympic gold with Roger Federer in the doubles event after defeating the American Bryan twins, Mike and Bob. It’s a great achievement to play with Roger, who is a living legend.

Learning from a legend

“I cherish every moment and have learnt a lot from him. Just watching him itself has taught me so much. I did feel the pressure initially when I played with him, but we started clicking well together as a team, and I’m more comfortable and confident now. Personally, I do believe Roger can regain his No.1 spot, even though Rafael Nadal is a very tough player. I believe it can happen this year, ” said the second seed at the Chennai Open.

The year wasn’t without difficulties for Wawrinka, after tendonitis put the breaks on his progress in February.

“I suffered a three-month setback, tearing a tendon in my right knee while practising for the Swiss Davis Cup team’s tie against Spain in February. It definitely was a difficult phase of my career and I am happy it’s better now.

“I hope to regain my position in the top 10 this year and will try my best in making that happen. I am looking forward to a great start at the Chennai Open. I am sure things will be good for me and I will have many victories this year.”

First appearance

“I’ve never played in Chennai before.Doing well here now is very important. I have just an exhibition event before the Australian Open, so I need to do my best here. The Chennai Open is one of the top circuits and I will look to have a victory in my name.”