Hartwig was signing autographs for young fans, with a strong showing of around 120 entrants set to take to the court for the tournament this year.

After a career-high world singles ranking of five and going to number one in doubles, Hartwig said it was very humbling to have the local tournament in his name.

"It's a real honour," Hartwig said.

"It's always nice coming back to Albury.

"I spent so much time here and learnt so much.

"I worked on these courts for so many years, I know a fair bit about them."

With a playing career that speaks for itself, Hartwig said he looks back on many highlights from his time spent on the tennis circuit.

"Twenty years you could say I travelled the world," Hartwig said.

"I think I had 15 round the world trips.

"There's not too many places in the world I haven't been."

Now in it's third year, the Rex Hartwig Cup attracts players from around the region and interstate, with many expected to stay for the annual Easter tournament set to commence at the end of the week.

Local players will also be out in force.

"Players have come from everywhere," tournament director Cameron Meagher said.

"They've come from Victoria and NSW, with a lot of locals playing as well.

"It's good for the area."

The tournament received 90 entrants in its inaugural year and was boosted to 190 last year.

"It's gone down this year running into the Easter tournament with a few other tournaments on," Meagher said.

"But quite a few players will be staying through to Easter."

The Rex Hartwig Cup runs for three days with the winners presented on Wednesday.