Melbourne memories flood back to former finalist Baghdatis ...

Smiling Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis admits that the thrill of returning to the scene of his only Grand Slam final has left him keen to begin the 2007 Australian Open tomorrow.

He said yesterday that the feelings of anticipation began to grow on the ride to town from the airport.

“It was a bit weird, getting close to the hotel, it was a strange sensation,” said the number 11, who says he’s fine after an ankle injury score this week at the Sydney tournament.

“It’s great to be back, I’m really excited to go out there and play tennis.”

Baghdatis won the public’s heart at Melbourne Park a year ago as he lost a final to Roger Federer. Thousands of countrymen living in Australia packed the stands, including some of the player’s 20-odd cousins who live in Melbourne.

Even as he looks to the future, the 21-year-old took a dip into the past.

“I watched my final yesterday against Roger, some memories came back. I had a great run, that’s for sure. It was a good experience,” he said. “I was a bit disappointed that I lost. But, it’s 12 months ago — life continues.”