DOB: 19.07.1980 Nationality: Belgian World Ranking: 31 Australian Open record: 2001 :: n/a 2000 :: n/a 1999 :: n/a 1998 :: n/a 1997 :: n/a

The young Belgian is making his debut down under, but if his form at last year's other Grand Slam events is any guide, he will not be out of his depth.

Malisse is doing for men's tennis in Belgium what the likes of Justine Henin and Kim Clijsters are doing for the women's game.

Although he is yet to win an ATP title, he is fast improving and will be confident of turning one of his two final appearances into a win this year.

A second week appearance would be regarded as a success, but having disposed of Fabrice Santoro and Tim Henman at the US Open, more experienced opponents now know what to expect.