DOB: 22.04.1975 Nationality: Czech World Ranking: 7 Australian Open record:  2002 :: semi-final 2001 :: n/a 2000 :: second round 1999 :: third round 1998 :: n/a 1997 :: second round

Novak had his most successful two weeks in tennis at last year's Australian Open when he made it all the way to the semi-finals.

And far from being a temporary improvement, the Czech went on to have his best year and finish in the top 10 for the first time.

The next step up could prove difficult as, after nine years on the tour, Novak does not have much in his game that can surprise the very best players.

But he has a consistent game that prospers on all surfaces and, as he showed last year, can beat any player who is not on the top of their game.