Chennai, Dec 30 (IANS): Two-time Grand Slam winner Stan Wawrinka believes that 2015 was a great year for him and wants to take the winning momentum into 2016.

The Swiss won four tournaments in 2015, including the lone clay court Major -- French Open -- and wants to begin the New Year by defending his men's singles title at the $480,000 Chennai Open, to be held at the SDAT Stadium here from January 4 to 10.

"I've always enjoyed coming to Chennai. The tournament is a nice way to start the season. The fans are great and I like the atmosphere. Of course, I would love to defend my title but I will have to go match-by-match," said the 30-year-old.

"2015 has been an amazing year and 2016 is already around the corner. I want to continue to do well, win tournaments and go deep at the Slams. Hopefully, I get a great start into the season in Chennai again."

The World No.4 is a three-time winner here, capturing the title in 2011, 2014 and 2015. He also clinched the men's doubles title in 2013 with Frenchman Benoit Paire.

"I'm somebody who really likes to work hard. I like to get up early in the morning and enjoy practicing a lot. That helps me a lot because a tennis career is very much about working hard and enjoying what you do," said Wawrinka.

The 20th edition of Chennai Open will be the reigning French Open winner's eighth visit here and he will be eager to bag a hat-trick of titles come New Year.