Berdych hopes to fare better

Chennai, Dec 30 (IANS): World No.6 Tomas Berdych hopes to carry forward his 2012 momentum into the New Year as the top seed prepares for the ATP Chennai Open that begins here Monday.

On his second visit to play in Chennai, Berdych is on a high after an impressive year during which he had two tournament victories and qualified for the ATP World Tour finals for the third year in a row.

“I have had a terrific season in 2012 and it has been just amazing, especially to win the Davis Cup final in Prague,” said the 27-year-old Berdych who also helped his country win the Hopman Cup.

“It feels just great because I really like to play team events for my country. What’s more, we are the only country to win the Hopman Cup, Fed Cup and Davis Cup in one year!”

Looking ahead to Chennai Open where he was a semi-finalist in his first appearance in 2011, Berdych said: “I’ve played in Chennai and had a good start to the season. I hope to do the same this year and maybe better my last performance and make the crowds happy.”

Berdych hoped to move higher in the World rankings during the forthcoming season by being consistent in his performance and possibly win his maiden Grand Slam crown.

“I feel my career is moving in the right direction and I really want to improve my current ranking and try to fight for a Grand Slam crown,” he said.