Hingis to return at Gold Coast resort

The Mondial Australian Women’s Hardcourts have confirmed that former world number one and multiple Grand Slam champion Martina Hingis will make her return to the WTA Tour at the Gold Coast event.

Hingis joins an excellent field of 14 players in the top 50 in the world and five in the top 20 – Maria Sharapova (4), Patty Schnyder (7), Nathalie Dechy (12), Francesca Schiavone (13) and Dinara Safina (20).

With this level of talent comes a high standard of tennis and a good gauge for the returning Hingis.

“I know I’ll get some tough matches and it will allow me to get used to the Australian summer coming from the European winter, both of which will be helpful with my preparation for the Australian Open,” said Hingis.

“I’m very excited to be making my return to competitive tennis in Australia. I have always felt at home on the Australian courts.”

And for good reason.

Hingis was a regular fixture in the Australian Open decider for six years in succession from 1997 to 2002, and won three of her five Grand Slam titles at the southern hemisphere’s only major in three successive years from 1997 to 1999.

The 25-year-old has also won the Sydney International on three occasions.

Hingis has won 36 doubles titles in addition to her 40 singles titles, making her one of the most versatile all-around players the WTA has seen.

Tournament director, former player Liz Smylie, said she was excited about having Hingis make her comeback tournament at the Gold Coast event.

“Given the amazing career that she’s already had, it’s hard to believe she’s still only 25 years old. Time’s definitely on her side and it’s an honour for the tournament to host her return to tennis,” said Smylie.

Only time will tell how the recommencement of Hingis’ professional tennis career will fair, while the international tennis community eagerly anticipates the path in which her career will take.

The Mondial Australian Women’s Hardcourts runs from January 1 to 7, 2006 at the Royal Pines Resort.

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