Hingis targets big year

General / Editor / 04 February 2007 / Leave a Comment

Supporters of Martina Hingis will be encouraged to hear the Swiss star is targeting a successful season after she defeated Serbia's Ana Ivanovic 6-4 6-2 to secure a record fifth Pan Pacific Open title on Sunday.

The 26-year-old former world number one wrapped up a one-sided final inside 71 minutes to make it three singles title wins since she returned to the WTA Tour last year.

It was also a 43rd career singles title for Hingis, who previously won the title in 1997, 1999, 2000 and 2002.

The victory in Tokyo, Japan, was also revenge for Hingis, who lost out to 19-year-old Ivanovic in straight sets in Montreal last year in their only other meeting. It also means she will stay at number six in the world rankings when they are released on Monday.

Hingis said: "Winning (tournaments) is twice as sweet this time around definitely. It used to be so normal for me in 1997 and 1998.

"I never thought I'd have the chance to win tournaments again. This time it feels like I really deserve it. I'm more proud this time round."

She added: "Hopefully I can be more successful this year. This year I want to prove myself even more."

Betfair Punters should keep an eye on the markets available for future tournaments as Hingis targets further glory.