THIS year’s ATP Malaysian Open is expected to gather some of the best in the world by virtue of being the only tour event staged in Southeast Asia.
Bangkok used to host a tour event but it has moved to Shenzhen, China, this year.
Former US Open champion Juan Martin Del Potro of Argentina along with Canada’s World No 9 Milos Raonic and 10th-ranked Japanese star Kei Nishikori are among the confirmed players for the annual event at Putra Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Sept 20-28.
“Three players in the top 10 have signed up so far in advance. It proves that our tournament is gaining momentum. I expect a better field this time,” said tournament director Nick Freyer yesterday.
“I expect an increase in attendance from outside Malaysia. The future looks very bright for the tournament.”
Potro, the World No 7, will use the Malaysian Open to gauge his form following a surgery to his left wrist after Dubai in February.
Nishikori is also brimming with confidence after breaking into the top 10 recently. The Japanese reached the semi-finals in 2011 and 2012.
The Lawn Tennis Association of Malaysia (LTAM) will pick three locals to take up the wild cards for the qualifying round.
Tickets, priced between RM10 and RM160, can be purchased on http://www.ticketcharge.com.my/en/component/k2/malaysian-open-kuala-lump... or at TicketCharge outlets. By Ajitpal Singh
