Today was very special when 8 of the top players in the world came together to raise money for the victims of the earthquake in Haiti. Federer, Nadal, Djorkovic, Hewitt, Williams, Clijsters, Roddick and Stosur played in two teams of 4 against each other. The tickets for Rad Laver arena was $ 10 dollars and it was packed. It was awesome to see that people came out to watch the best players in the world and at the same time raised money for a good cause.. Federer, Nadal, Djorkovic, Roddick, Clijsters and Williams entertained the packed stadium with some brilliant tennis but the crowd also saw a different side to these players. They where joking with each other and making everybody laugh. It was a privilege to be there at court side. I was seated next to Rogers dad Robert, what a lovely man and a very proud dad. We had a nice chat and he told me about their 3 week trip through Botswana, he just loves the bush.
Tomorrow is a big day for Kevin Anderson. He will face world no 5 Andy Murray on Rod Laver Arena. We spent 35 min on Rod Laver today just before the Hit for Haite exhibition with lots of people already in the stadium so he had a taste of what to expect tomorrow. It was great for me to be out there again and brought back so great memories. The last time I was out on the centre court was in 1997 when I played with Larisa Neiland in the finals of the mixed doubles. Unfortunately we lost 7-5 in the 3rd set.
The rest of the South African guys will only start doubles on Wednesday.
There is lots of activities and parties going on the weekend before a Grand Slam. All the companies have their product distributions, this is where the players get all their clothes, rackets, shoes and bags until the next Grand Slam. I am still very fortunate to be sponsored by Prince. This year is my 21 st year playing with Prince. They are celebrating their 40th Birthday this year. What a great company.
Well I can't wait for tomorrow. This is going to be a great Grand Slam.
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