Berdych, Isner banking on Hua Hin as springboard to major triumph

Former Thailand Open finalist Berdych, the top seed in the exhibition, takes centre stage at 3.30pm today in a bonus match against Thai Davis Cup star Pruchya Isarow, prior to the opening ceremony. Then come matches between 2012 Thailand Open champion Richard Gasquet of France and world No 10 David Ferrer of Spain, and American John Isner versus Fabio Fognini of Italy.

Previous winners of the event have gone on to lift the Australian Open trophy. Kim Clijsters and Victoria Azarenka used their Hua Hin wins in 2011 and 2012, respectively, as a springboard to triumph at the season’s first Major, in Melbourne. China’s Li Na won the friendly in 2013 before going on to win the Australian Open in January this year.

“Let’s hope that this tradition will keep on. There will be six of us trying to win this trophy,” said the towering Berdych, who boasts semi-final appearances in every Major, with his best result a runners-up place at Wimbledon in 2010.

Isner, making his second trip to Hua Hin, also sees the exhibition as an ideal opportunity to fine-tune his game ahead of the Australian swing of the season.

“I’ve been here twice and this is perfect preparation for Australia. There’s a reason why they play here and continue to win in Australia. It’s hot and humid here just like in Australia,” said the American, who has just hired former ATP player Justin Gimselstob as his new coach.

Apart from warming up for the opening Slam of the season, the six players, including last-minute arrival Milos Raonic, world No 8, will be exploring the resort town. Isner and Berdych have brought girlfriends Madison McKinley and Ester Satorova along, while Foginini has sweetheart Flavia Penetta for company and is hoping to get some tips from the player ranked No 13 in the women’s game.

“She is a former top 10 player and has more experience than me. She can give me some advice on tennis and help me in practise too,” said the Italian world No 20, who took time off for fun at the Hua Hin Vananara Water Park with his sister and entourage yesterday.

The six players donned Thai batik shirts for a Sawasdee Welcome Dinner last night, where they were presented with their portraits sketched by renowned artist Tawee Kesa-ngam.

An autographed group portrait of the players painted by Tawee will go up for auction during the final matches on Friday, with the proceeds donated to charity.