Jo-Wilfried Tsonga downed fellow Frenchman Julien Benneteau 6-4 3-6 6-3 6-4 to record his maiden win at the French Open on Tuesday and celebrated the occasion by wearing a tie to his post-match news conference.
“This is my first victory here. I celebrate this victory like this,” a beaming Tsonga told reporters while showing off his navy blue tie. “I wanted to come in a tuxedo … but my sponsor didn’t really want me to. Now I’ve found a solution.”
Asked if he would wear a bow tie if he ended up winning the tournament, Tsonga responded: “If I win, I will wear whatever you want but not a G-string.”
Tsonga, who lost in straight sets to Andy Roddick in his only appearance at Roland Garros in 2005, prevailed after two hours 43 minutes on a windswept Centre Court.
Jo-Wilfried Tsong takes a look at the new EA Wii tennis game that has him as a new character.
Slovakian glamour girl, Daniela Hantuchova, is the latest to confirm her attendance at the Brisbane International in January.
The world number 19 was a semifinalist at the Australian Open in 2008 and broke into the top 10 when she reached number 5 in August 2002.
She will be joined by French Open Champion Ana Ivanovic and reigning Australian Women’s Hardcourt Champion Na Li in the women’s draw.
The men’s draw boasts Novak Djokovic, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Marcos Baghdatis, Gael Monfils, Richard Gasquet and Mardy Fish with the player cut off date, for the tournament ,on the 21 November.
Daniela Hantuchova said “I am really excited about returning to Australia and playing a strong field in the lead up to the Grand Slam.
“I took home some really nice memories last year. It was something very special for me.
“With my preparation this year and the quality field at the Brisbane International, I will be even more ready.
“I love Australia and have played in tournaments there since 2001. I am looking forward to playing in this new event and challenging some high quality players in the lead up to the Australian Open.”
It has been announced this morning that Brisbane International organisers have signed Novak Djokovic and Jo Wilfried Tsonga, to play at the inaugural event.
The pair join former world No.1 and reigning French Open women’s champion Ana Ivanovic at what is shaping up as a star-studded event.
“It is the perfect way to begin my Australian campaign. I have heard great things about Brisbane but never had the opportunity to visit,” Djokovic said.
The Queensland event will be held at the State tennis centre from the 4th-11th January 2009.
