World No.1 Caroline Wozniacki is excited that she will be returning to Thailand and meet Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva before her exhibition match with US Open champion Kim Clijsters in Hua Hin on New Year's Day.
Although both get along well, Denmark's Wozniacki wants to defeat Clijsters of Belgium in the 84 World Tennis Invitation Hua Hin on Jan 1.
Wozniacki, who played at the Pattaya Open three years ago, said that she was looking forward to returning to Thailand.
Wozniacki will arrive here on Monday and will have a busy schedule. She and Clijsters, who is scheduled to arrive in Bangkok on Wednesday, will sign a get-well book for His Majesty the King at Siriraj hospital on Thursday.
After that they will meet Abhisit at Government House.
"What an honour!" Wozniacki said of her scheduled meeting with the prime minister.
During her stay in Thailand, Wozniacki will enjoy the beach, spa, elephant riding and, of course, shopping. "I'm really looking forward to riding on an elephant and laying on the beach in the sun working on my tan," she said.
"I hope I can spend a lot of time on the beach and in the spa. Maybe a little shopping. Typical girl stuff!"
Wozniacki recalled her visit to Pattaya three years ago: "I still remember that the beach was so beautiful and the people were so nice to me and my father. Food was also good. We had a wonderful time although I did not play very well."
She said she wanted to beat Clijsters to avenge her defeats against the Belgian at the US Open and the WTA Championships.
One of the most popular players among Thai fans, Wozniacki said she wanted to be the world's top-ranked player as long as possible although she would not put too much pressure on herself.
She said her immediate goal for 2011 was to win in Sydney in her first competitive tournament of the year. "I can't wait to get to Hua Hin!" she said.
The Clijsters v Wozniacki match starts at 5pm. It will be followed by American twins Bob and Mike Bryan of the US against Thai twins Sonchat and Sanchai Ratiwatana.
Tickets are 1,500 baht each and are available at Thai Ticket Major outlets.