Moya to play in Chennai Open

Two-time champion Carlos Moya of Spain has confirmed participation in the USD 436,000 Chennai Open starting on December 31.

Moya, who was named Arthur Ashe Humanitarian of 2005 for donating his prize money of USD 52,000 to tsunami relief efforts, has competed in six of the seven editions of the tournament.

The world number 17 had won the event in 2004 and 2005 and finished runner-up in 2000 and early this year. In January this year, Moya lost to Stefan Koubek of Austria.

"I always look forward to coming to India and especially Chennai. I have some very fond memories of playing at Chennai Open and would love to improve my performance in 2008 in starting the season on a bright note. I am confident of raising my game to the highest level," Moya said.

In 2007, Moya had captured an ATP title for the eighth consecutive season and finished as the oldest player in top 20. He jumped to a 12-6 start in first two months with runner-up finishes in Sydney and Acapulo.

Tournament Director Chennai Open, Fernando Solar said, "Moya is a legend and Chennai Open is always delighted to host this true champion."

World number two Rafael Nadal and Russian Mikhail Youzhny (No 18) have already confirmed participation.