Aircel Chennai Open: Players to watch out for
The 2014 ATP season kicks off with multiple ATP 250 events in Brisbane, Doha and Chennai. The Aircel Chennai Open in its 18th edition would have some top ranked players fighting it out to get ready for the first slam of the year at Melbourne Park. However, fans would be disappointed with the withdrawal of defending champion Janko Tipsarevic due to a heel-tendon rupture. Despite the absence of the Serb, there are a lot of exciting and budding talents to watch out for at the SDAT stadium this New Year.
1) Stanislas Wawrinka
LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 10: Stanislas Wawrinka of Switzerland hits a forehand in his men
Stanislas Wawrinka had an exceptional 2013 as he reached a career high ranking of number 8 in the world. The 2011 Chennai Open winner also reached his first ever grand slam semifinal at Flushing Meadows. With multiple victories against top 10 players, the Swiss secured his first ever ATP World tour final spot. Wawrinka reached the semis in London, eventually losing out to world number 1 Novak Djokovic. The top seed in Chennai would be aiming to record his 300th match win during the tournament. Being the only top 10 player in the draw, Wawrinka would be the firm favourite to lift the title.
2) Mikhail Youzhny
BANGKOK, THAILAND – SEPTEMBER 27: Mikhail Youzhny of Russia plays a shot in his match against Richard Gasquet of France during the 2013 Thailand Open at Impact Arena on September 27, 2013 in Bangkok, Thailand. (Photo by Thananuwat Srirasant/Getty Images)
Mikhail Youzhny has been one of those players who have always remained in the top level of world tennis. The Russian 2nd seed is returning to Chennai after a triumph way back in 2008. In the 2008 final, Youzhny had demolished Rafael Nadal in straight sets 6-0 6-1 to lift the trophy at the Nungambakkam tennis stadium. The world number 15 Youzhny had a decent 2013 winning 2 titles in Valencia and Gstaad. He is a tricky customer for any opponent and his experience would put him as a front runner for the trophy on 5th January.