David Palmer is hoping that the support of a Bermuda home crowd will help him win his third World Open title when the tournament comes to the Island in November.

Palmer, an Australian who has spends most of his time here when not touring, was one of the first players to register for the Endurance World Open Bermuda 2007, scheduled for November 25 to December 1.

Ranked third on the world professional squash circuit, Palmer is looking forward to defending his World Open title.

"I am really looking forward to the tournament for a number of reasons," he told The Royal Gazette. "Firstly, as the current World Open champion, I look forward to defending my title and winning a third World Open.

"Secondly, as a Bermuda resident who sees Bermuda as my second home, I enjoy playing and training here. The support I get is great and it will be an extra boost to play in front of so many good friends."

Renowned for his fitness and strong spirit, Palmer has a reputation for throwing around his sturdy 6ft 3in frame to win a point.

Palmer has brought several top squash players here for training, including Jonathan Power and John White. But he also enjoys passing on his squash knowledge to local youngsters such as eight-year-old Madeleine Rose, who said he's always eager to get her onto the squash court for a lesson.

And when he's not training for squash, Palmer can be seen touring the Island on a rental bike, or playing golf at the Tucker's Point Club.

Although some say he's quiet and shy off the court, they say he is always approachable to the squash community here in Bermuda and is a great inspiration to juniors.

Palmer laid out his plans for the season and the World Open: "Obviously, all the players see this as the most important tournament of the year. And they see it as the one they want to win more than any other and that's why so many have signed up already.

"On a personal note, I've had a few small hiccups over the summer with training but I normally play my best squash at the end of the year after a few tournaments under my belt.

"I seem to be able to peak for the major tournaments over the years, so I am hoping it will all come together again in November."