Kevin Anderson said he will go flat-out to defend his Mubadala World Tennis Championship title.
"My goal is to defend the title here. I had a great last year. This is a great way to start a season and play good matches. I would love to do the same this year. And this is a great opportunity in a very competitive atmosphere. Even though this is an exhibition, players are playing with full heart as this is a perfect opportunity to prepare for new year. This is a nice springboard for the season."
World No. 6 Anderson will start his title defence against Chung Hyeon - the first Korean player to reach a Grand Slam semifinal at the 2018 Australian Open.
Anderson said his preparations for the new season had gone well.
"It was a pretty short off season. I had a nice vacation too with my wife to get away from everything. Of course, my focus was training and preparing for the new season. The biggest thing was recovery and getting body healthy and ready. Everything feels good. There are always few things you're working on - movement on the court, return and stuff at the net. Overall all the things are looking good. I am all ready to get to the court."
The South African said he has more self-belief and his confidence level is high.
"I believe more in myself. I am continuing to grow and take steps further. I am looking at things that are working for me. It's a personal discovery and help to make better decisions. I am starting here and heading to Pune (in India). It makes sense as both are pretty close (Abu Dhabi and Pune)."
Meanwhile, Hyeon Chung said he is just happy to be part of the tournament. At the Australian Open, he had thumped Novak Djokovic in straight sets. But he is realistic and hopes to have a decent season.
"I am happy to be part of a tournament with all these great players. I am looking forward to playing here. I had some great results but also few months of injury. I am trying my best to do well in the next season. I had a very good three-week pre-season. I am trying to stay healthy. This is a good chance to play great players before the season actually starts. I am just trying to enjoy my time," Chung said.
He is wary of the challenge posed by 6 foot 8 inches tall opponent.
"Kevin Anderson is one of the great players. I have played him few times and know how to play. I will try to play my best."
Anderson takes on Chung in first match of the tournament and the action starts at 4pm.
By Ashwani Kumar
