DOB: 25.11.1977 Nationality: Argentine World Ranking: 14 Australian Open record: 2001 :: second round 2000 :: first round 1999 :: first round 1998 :: n/a 1997 :: n/a

Argentine Canas is one of the rising stars of the game.

The 23-year-old has yet to make an impact in the Grand Slams but 2001 was particularly fruitful for him.

Canas reached four finals last year, winning the Casablanca International Series in April - his first tour title.

And he served notice in the opening week of the New Year by winning the Tata Open in India.

That win helped him make an early mark on the ATP Champions Race.

Canas comes to Melbourne perfectly prepared to beat his previous best at a Grand Slam - fourth round appearances at Roland Garros and Wimbledon.