SINGAPORE – As a tourist spot, Singapore’s list of must-visit attractions and experiences include indulging in chilli crab, shopping in Orchard Road and dressing up in traditional costumes “for the ‘gram (Instagram)”.
Some of the world’s top players have already ticked these off their lists before the Sept 21-27 Singapore Tennis Open.
Ahead of the US$1.2 million (S$1.5 million) tournament, world No. 11 Amanda Anisimova strolled down Orchard Road and enjoyed local hawker fare, though she put off a visit to Sentosa because of the heat.
Speaking at the event’s welcome party on Sept 20, she said: “I love walking around here, I love all the shopping and all the people. They’re always so welcoming and the atmosphere is amazing. I enjoy every second when I’m here.”
Several players were also spotted in kebayas at the event at Hilton Singapore Orchard, as guests were serenaded live with folk tunes like Chan Mali Chan by ethnic music group yIN Harmony.
Before her first-round match against Linda Fruhvirtova, Greek world No. 33 Maria Sakkari’s first challenge here was tackling a feast of chilli crab and mantou, which she described as “tough to eat, but very good”.
For the WTA players, experiencing the local culture is one of the highlights of being a touring pro, and a big reason why they enjoy competing in Asia.
The WTA 500 tournament at The Kallang’s OCBC Arena is part of its Asian swing that includes tournaments in China, South Korea and Japan.
It features a stacked field that includes Roland Garros champion and top seed Mirra Andreeva, Filipino rising star Alexandra Eala and defending champion Elise Mertens.
As the leading seeds alongside Anisimova, the four players received a bye into the second round.
Anisimova, 25, enjoys exploring new places as it also helps her relax before a tournament.
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