Germany's rising tennis star Daniel Altmaier can't wait to get stuck into the new year after impressing on the ITF Futures circuit in Hong Kong.
It was not the most relaxing Christmas for the 19-year-old Sky Sports Scholar but after shoulder and hip problems, it was a great way to celebrate and prepare for a busy 2018.
Having competed in Kuwait and Thailand in early December, Altmaier headed to Hong Kong for another event on the Futures Tour schedule, an ITF series for new pros, and missed out on top spot after a thrilling final.
"I was happy how the week went because I could really feel how I improved match by match," said Altmaier who didn't drop a set in his first four matches, before losing 6-3 3-6 7-5 to South Korean Kim Cheong-Eui on Christmas Eve.
"Not winning the final was not the present I was looking for of course, but it was still pretty good to get that far.
"I built up a lot of confidence during the week which was really good, especially after the weeks off because of my injuries. It was so nice to finish the year with a decent result.
"It wasn't an easy year and I have learned a lot, but now I'm feeling very confident, focused and motivated going into 2018 and I can't wait to get back on the court."
Altmaier, currently ranked 313 in the world, began the year with two weeks of practice in Phuket, Thailand and is now in Sydney preparing for his next tournament in Tasmania which gets going on January 29.
He added: "I've been working really hard, especially on my fitness and now I'm ready for the different conditions.
"I'm feeling really good and happy to start my year here. I am definitely super-motivated to do well."