World number 4 Stanislas Wawrinka says the title win at the Chennai Open is a great start to the new season, giving him the confidence for the big matches ahead.
Wawrinak overcame Slovenia's Aljaz Bedene in straight sets to win his third Chennai Open title.
"I am really happy and it's a great start to the new season. It is special to win the title here for the third time. I am feeling more confident of winning big matches in the season. I am flying to Melbourne to have few days of practice there," Wawrinka, who is to defend his Australian Open title, said.
"I had worked hard during the off season. I went to Abu Dhabi for a few days to get ready for this tournament. The first week of a new season is important. It is for sure, I can play well on the season," he added.
Wawrinka remaining in top-four would be a great challenge.
"It's tough. It is tough for every player and you see everybody battle to get to the top. It is going to be interesting year for sure," he said.
Talking about today's final, he said it was not easy.
"It is never easy and winning each match is important. It was a good final for me. I was able to put pressure on Bedene with my first serve. I was aggressive from the beginning of the game. I gained breaks in each set and I am really happy with the way I deal with it," he said
Praising his Slovenian rival, Wawrinka said, "He is a great player. It is nice that we have played each other now three years in a row. He played an amazing match last night saving match point against Roberto Bautista Agut. He is a nice guy and I am happy that he started the season with a final entry as a qualifier. I hope he can improve on this year."
Bedene reaching the final has given him confidence to do well in the season.
"I worked very hard work for this tournament and the new season before coming here. It was my first final today and I am very happy for my big wins this week here though I lost in the finals. I am looking forward to a great season this year," he said.
