World No.14 Patty Schnyder has arrived in Hobart ahead of the Moorilla Hobart International which gets underway this Friday 9 January.
The first main draw player to arrive on the Apple Isle, Schnyder is getting back into the swing of things after a well earned break since her last tournament in October 2008.
“I chose to stay home over the new year and have one great tournament [in the lead up to the Australian Open], so hopefully I’ll have lots of matches here,” Schnyder said today.
“I’m fresh mentally; it was great to have time at home with a little bit of normal life.”
“I arrived early to make sure I’m 100 per cent once the tournament starts,” Schnyder continued.
Returning for the first time since 1999 Schnyder said it feels good to be back in Tasmania.
“I had a good experience here, first winning, but enjoyed the whole place and the people. I am really happy to be back.”
Schnyder had her first hit on the new Plexicushion courts at the Domain Tennis Centre today, with tournament hitting partner, Tasmanian Andrew Roberts.
“The courts feel good. It was good to practice,” Schnyder said.
As well as relishing the chance to be back on the court the Swiss No.1 is enjoying the Australian summer.
“It is really cold in Switzerland right now so it’s good to be here for the Australian summer and great to be on the tour again.”
The qualifying event will kick start the 2009 Moorilla Hobart International on 9 January with the main draw action underway from 11 January.
Tickets are now on sale through Ticketek, with tickets starting at just $9.90.
Tickets can be purchased online at ticketek.com.au or 1300 888 104.