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Better Luck In Beijing

Thomas Johansson is hoping it will be a case of third time lucky when he returns to Beijing to play in this months China Open. The likeable Swede has appeared twice before in Chinas capital, playing indoors, and each time lost in the semi-finals first to Martin Damm of the Czech Republic in 1996 and then to American Jim Courier the following year.

"I remember the loss to Courier pretty well, even though it was a few years ago," he says. "Beijing was a great city and I really enjoyed being there, so I`m looking forward to returning. I`ve got a bit of time off before the tournament, so I`m going to prepare well and really focus on the task ahead. I like playing in Asia."

Johansson, 30, has claimed eight ATP titles in an outstanding career that was highlighted by his triumph at the 2002 Australian Open. It should have been the start of a major year for him, but he was held back by a left knee injury that eventually needed surgery, causing him to miss the entire 2003 season.