Ferrer, Chardy Confirm Johannesburg Participation

© SA Tennis OpenDavid Ferrer squandered three match points in a semi-final loss to Jeremy Chardy in 2009.

Spaniard David Ferrer and last year's runner-up Jeremy Chardy of France have confirmed their participation at the SA Tennis Open, an ATP World Tour hard-court tennis tournament at Montecasino, from 1-7 February, 2010.

"It is an honour for us to have David Ferrer back in South Africa for the SA Tennis Open.  His never-say-die attitude makes him one of the most exciting players on the ATP World Tour and he is sure to draw many fans to Montecasino," said Tournament Director Ian Smith.

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"I am looking forward to returning to South Africa in February," said Chardy, who finished runner-up to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in the 2009 final.  "I had a good tournament in 2009 and hopefully I can take it one step further this time.  I enjoy playing in front of the big crowds there and they are very supportive of the French players, so hopefully I will be able to enjoy the event along with countryman Gael Monfils."

Ferrer's signing will be welcomed by female sporting fans as the Spaniard was voted one of the world's sexiest sportsmen in a recent survey.  "David is fabulous, he's gorgeous and definitely eye candy for our local audiences," said Socialite Edith Venter of Edith Venter Promotions, organizers of the tournaments' Charity Ladies Day.  "David will surely be a bigger and better hit than last year as fans will know what to expect." 

Ferrer and Chardy join Gael Monfils, currently No. 13 in the South African Airways 2010 ATP Rankings, and Feliciano Lopez of Spain, German Nicolas Kiefer, Jarkko Nieminen of Finland and Israeli Harel Levy.  Two other players, Somdev Devvarman and Karol Beck, who were involved in Davis Cup by BNP Paribas ties in South Africa will return for the SA Tennis Open.

"I think we have an outstanding field here and we look forward to some high quality and competitive tennis at Montecasino next year.  The venue is outstanding and each year I believe the entry will get stronger." said Elliot Themba, Senior Manager Sponsorship and Government Sales of tournament sponsors South African Airways.

Tickets for the tournament are available at Computicket nationwide and the Montecasino Box Office.