Anna Kournikova Charms Her Way Into The Hearts Of Malaysians On Her Maiden Visit

KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 29, 2009) – Tennis diva Anna Kournikova served an ace as she charmed her way into Malaysian hearts with her breathtaking beauty, honesty and professionalism – all in less than 24 hours.

Unveiled as the event ambassador of the Showdown of Champions 2009, Asia versus Russia – the Glam Slam, Kournikova’s fleeting moment in Malaysia on Monday became virtually a show-stopper.

The 28-year old beauty may not have won a Wimbledon title throughout her tennis career but Kournikova won the hearts of the Malaysian audience as her creamy complexion, flawless skin, steel-blue eyes and mass of pale golden hair graced the launch at the Café Stelle By Raffles, signature photoshoot at the crystal fountain at the Pavilion, Bukit Bintang before becoming the centre of attention at the Royale Chulan, the official hotel of Showdown of Champions 2009.

“It’s nice to be at a new place. I’ve looked forward to this trip for quite a while. People here are great and friendly, over-friendly, I might add. Everybody seems to be smiling always.

“I think Malaysia is unique in that it combines modernity and tradition. The weather is so great and suited for tennis. Malaysia is simply paradise. I would love to come back soon and enjoy the sun and sea,” she enthused.

The tennis celebrity who hung up her racket in 2003, dazzled the crowd on her maiden appearance in Malaysia in gleaming fashion when she emerged from the backstage during the official launch with a crimson Malay traditional dress baju kurung, black  sarong and shawl on her flawless figure.

“I just love it!” said a beaming Kournikova of her baju kurung by IKartini collections.

Shortly after the media conference where Kournikova shared the stage with Director-general of Tourism Malaysia, Datuk Mirza Mohammad Taiyyab Beg, Lawn Tennis Association of Malaysia (LTAM) and LD Sports chairman, Dato’ Mohamad Taufik Omar, the Russia blonde bombshell was whisked to the crystal fountain outside the Pavilion for the signature photoshoot and happily posed for the photographers .

The Showdown of Champions 2009, Asia versus Russia — The Glam Slam is a two-day affair that will feature Asian icons Sania Mirza and Zhang Jie together with World No 5 and Olympic champion, Elena Dementieva and Maria Kirilenko of Russia.

“I’m excited to be part of this project. Tennis is a popular sport and people love to travel between countries and even continents to watch their favourite stars in action. I’m sure people will be rooting for Zheng Jie and Sania here. I will of course keep track on Elena and Maria,” said Kournikova.

The challenge matches will take place at the Malawati Stadium in Shah Alam on Dec 19-20.

The sponsors are Yonex and Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur. The official hotel is Royale Chulan. The event is supported by the Ministries of Tourism as well as Youth and Sports.
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LD Sports is a leading sports event management company that successfully staged the Merdeka Tennis Festival in 2007 and the 2008 Showdown of Champions.

The Clash of Times and Clash of Titans in 2007 were part of Malaysia’s 50^th anniversary of Independence featuring Pete Sampras, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Richard Gasquet.

Federer made a return in 2008 for The Showdown of Champions showcasing four champions from two eras in one night. The Swiss ace was accompanied by James Blake and two legends, John McEnroe and Bjorn Borg to make the 2008 edition an unforgettable night for tennis. For more information, please visit www.showdownkl.com.

The event’s official sponsors are Royale Chulan, Yonex and Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and supported by the Ministries of Tourism and Youth and Sport.

For media queries, please contact:

Rizal Hashim +6012-234 4262 (rizal.hashim@yahoo.com)