Robin Soderling hopes his title at Brisbane will help him improve his record at the Australian Open, where he has never been past the second round.
"I don't know why because it is a surface that should be very good for me," Soderling said after a 6-3, 7-5 defeat of Andy Roddick in the final. "I have never had the good results but hopefully that will change for me this year.
"I've had the best possible preparation I could have—five good matches here and then I'll have a week of practice and preparation in Melbourne."
Despite being held on a covered court, the match was interrupted by rain coming in from the sides of the stadium. Roddick slipped on the baseline during the second set, criticizing the chair umpire for allowing play to continue.
Speaking to the drenched crowd afterwards, Roddick said, "I'll buy you all umbrellas next year, maybe."
The American, who had pledged to donate $100 for each ace he served during the tournament to flood relief in Queensland, also said he would double his $5,400 donation after serving 54 aces during the week.