DOB: 27.01.1980 Nationality: Russian World Ranking: 11 Australian Open record: 2001 :: fourth round 2000 :: first round 1999 :: third round 1998 :: n/a 1997 :: n/a

Safin took a crate of chilled vodka with him to the news conference following his US Open win in 2000.

Since that victory it is the Russian's roll call of wins that has cooled as he has battled against injury and a crumbling confidence.

The win at Flushing Meadows was supposed to herald the arrival of the new generation, with Safin to the fore.

However, since then he has been surpassed by Lleyton Hewitt and after winning a record seven titles in 2000 he only managed two tour wins last year.

The 20-year-old is a popular figure and has it all - talent, power, flair, and a slightly suspect temperament.

His all-round game means he could be one of the dominant forces in the years to come - the only question seems to surround his desire and commitment.