Olympic gold medalist Wawrinka confirms entry for Chennai Open

Mumbai, Oct 24 (UNI) World Number 12 and winner of the 2008 Beijing Olympics Gold Medal in doubles, Stanislas Wawrinka of Switzerland has confirmed his participation for Chennai Open 2009.

The 14th edition of 450,000 dollar Chennai Open, India's only ATP tennis tournament, will be held from January 5-11, 2009 at the SDAT Stadium at Nungambakkam, Chennai, a release issued here today stated.

Stanislas Wawrinka reached a career high ranking number nine on June nine, 2008. Along with Roger Federer, he became one of two Swiss players in the ATP top 10. His greatest achievement till date was when he won the gold medal for Switzerland in the men's doubles event at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, partnering Roger Federer.

Confirming his participation, Wawrinka said, ''This will be my first visit to India and I am anxiously looking forward to playing at the Chennai Open. I hope to give a good and consistent performance in India.'' Fernando Soler, Head - IMG Tennis Worldwide and Tournament Director, Chennai Open 2009 said, ''Stanislas Wawrinka is an exciting prospect and Chennaities will enjoy watching him in action.

He has been steadily rising up the ranks and is a player to watch out for. We at IMG are eagerly looking forward to hosting him and making it a trip worth remembering for him.'' UNI GS ZA RKM SB CS1808