Defending champion Stan Wawrinka (VCORE Tour G, SHT-PRO) reflected on his memories from last year’s epic victory and commented about the expectations this time around. “It's a new year, so everybody starts from zero. I feel I’m ready. I’ve been practicing really well and I won a tournament in Chennai last week. So I’m excited to start my first match on Tuesday.”
Stan enthusiastically introduced YONEX player and fellow Swiss player, Belinda Bencic (EZONE Ai 100, POLYTOUR HS 125), who made her entrance sporting her new YONEX Australian Open edition gear. Asked about her new head-to-toe contract with YONEX, the 2014 WTA “Newcomer of the Year” was very nostalgic. “I was wearing YONEX when I was 12 years old. So wearing YONEX again is very special to me. I’m really happy with it and I think it looks very nice.”
At the same time, the new VCORE Tour F made its first appearance underwater in a tank full of sharks! Two divers entertained guests while playing tennis underwater with the new racquets. With the VCORE Tour F’s new “Aero Fin Technology”, which increases serve speeds by 6%, it was only fitting that YONEX introduced the racquet amongst the presence of many fish and sharks.
Last year’s “ATP Star of Tomorrow” Borna Coric will debut the new VCORE Tour F at this year’s Australian Open and commented about how the new racquet has improved his game. “I wanted more speed on my groundstrokes and serves because I like to play very defensive. The extra edge I get from the speed allows me to be more confident on important shots where I get uneasy. This was a perfect fit for me and I’m very happy with this racquet.”
Young Aussie star Nick Kyrgios (EZONE Ai 98), who recently switched strings, boasted the feel and performance of the YONEX POLYTOUR PRO. “I’ve had some issues with my arm and had to stop playing during the final stretch of last year. I’m always looking for something that can take a load off my arm, so I’m really happy with the strings and excited to see where it goes. I found that the strings definitely didn't affect my game negatively but that it gave me more feel and power.”
Serbian Ana Ivanovic (EZONE Ai 98) reminisced about her long relationship with YONEX. “I still remember the first press conference we did, it was actually here in Melbourne in 2008, so this is a very special place for me. I made the final that year and I’ve been very happy with my YONEX racquet ever since.”
At the end of the night, Australia’s favorite and veteran Lleyton Hewitt dropped by the event to chat up guests regarding his incredible 19 consecutive Australian Open appearance.
Be sure to stay tuned for more updates on YONEX players’ performance as the main draw of the Australian Open kicks off next week!