Rios opens New Year account

Rios is confident and focused on the Australian Open

Qatar Open final
Marcelo Rios beats Bohdan Ulirach
6-3, 2-6, 6-3

Marcelo Rios celebrated the New Year and his recent marriage with the $1m first prize at the Qatar Open.

The Chilean survived a mid-match crisis to defeat Czech qualifier Bohdan Ulihrach in three sets.

It was the left-hander's 17th ATP Tour title and lifted his confidence ahead of the Australian Open.

"I was world number one in 1998. I want to be back on top and I think I can do it again," Rios said following his victory.

Valuable support

However he appreciated his week in Doha was not one of the toughest in his career.

"With three tournaments being played simultaneously in Doha, Madras and Adelaide, the top players were all scattered.

"But I feel confident and I think this victory today augurs well for my campaign at the Australian Open."

Rios credited his back-up team with his good early season form after being dogged by injury last season.

Ulihrach fought back in the second set

"My coach, my family and wife have been very supportive and encouraging, especially when I was away from the Tour," he said.

Ulihrach, who had escaped from the jaws of defeat several times during his run through the season-opener, looked poised to make yet another comeback when he squared the match.

But the former world number one then broke the Czech twice with his blistering forehand returns and superior court craft.

Rios was quick to point out that he was not "gifted" the win but Ulihrach, who was magnanimous in defeat, blamed his slow start.

"I failed to get off to a good start. That put me under some pressure but also pepped me up to fight in the second set."