World No 8 Wawrinka to play at Chennai Open

World No 8 Switzerland's Stanislas Wawrinka confirmed, on Monday, his participation in the 19th edition of the Aircel Chennai Open, India's only ATP World Tour tennis event, starting December 30.

Last year, Wawrinka had partnered Frenchman Benoit Paire to lift the doubles title.

The Olympic gold medallist (in doubles) will be participating in the tournament for the sixth successive year and would look to win title here second time, having triumphed here in 2011.

The 28-year-old has had a terrific 2013 having qualified for the season-ending ATP World Tour, where he reached semi-finals and lost to eventual champion Novak Djokovic.

Wawrinka compiled a career-best 51-23 match record in the season and had nine wins against Top 10 players.

In September 2013, Wawrinka proved his class at the US Open yet again. He reached the quarter-finals for the first time in three years after a four-set win over Tomas Berdych and followed this by defeating defending champion Andy Murray in three sets for a first Grand Slam semi-final appearance.

While he experienced a five-set loss against Djokovic, Wawrinka impressed the tennis world with his confidence and proficiency.

Prominent among his greatest achievements have been winning gold for his country in the men's doubles event at the Beijing Olympics in 2008, partnering multiple Grand  Slam winning compatriot Roger Federer.

"I am glad to say that Chennai Open 2014 will mark my sixth visit to Chennai to participate in a tournament I have grown to respect and love. As always, I am really looking forward to experiencing, once more, the excitement and support of the people," Wawrinka said.

M A Alagappan, President of Tamil Nadu Tennis Association said, "Wawrinka is a player adored by fans in Chennai and we are glad to announce that he will be seen in action this year as well. He has had a fantastic playing year and we congratulate him on his stupendous performance at the ATP World Tour Finals."

Image: Stanislas Wawrinka

Photograph: Julian Finney/Getty Images