Fourteen-time grand slam winner Rafael Nadal headlines the field at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship and besides watching the action, there are a wide array of activities on offer as well as fantastic prizes to be won.
The event, running from today until Saturday at Zayed Sports City, has attracted French Open champion Stan Wawrinka, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and world number seven David Ferrer. Completing the line-up are Milos Raonic and big-hitting Kevin Anderson, who have won 10 titles between them.
With six of the world’s top 14 players battling for glory ahead of the busy 2016 season, it promises one not to be missed. Off the court, there’s more activities than ever before, that will surely keep children and adults entertained.
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At the free-admission Tennis Village, open from 12.00, there’s opportunities to get up close to the stars with many autograph sessions taking place throughout the three days.
And Canadian star Raonic will take time out to answer questions from children today from 12.30.
Visitors can try their luck at landing an aeroplane in Etihad Airways’ new interactive game, while the Rado speed serve returns, giving fans to clock their shots against those of their tennis heroes.
On top of that, there’s a chance to go home with some exciting prizes in the daily raffle draw. A weekend test drive in a luxurious Range Rovers, a Dh2,000 gift voucher towards a resort stay and an economy ticket to any destination courtesy of Etihad Airways are all up for grabs.
And if you’re feeling hungry, there are supreme food outlets to choose from, meaning you will not be short of options.
Since launching in 2008, the event has gone from strength to strength. Last year thousands flocked through the gates, and the three-day event looks set to be another success.
“The Mubadala World Tennis Championships ensures a unique experience for tennis fans, families and friends, and this year the excitement will be even high as the tournament takes place across New Year,” said Vickie Gunnarsson, tournament director.
“From an action-packed court to autograph sessions and coaching clinics with the players, the tournament welcomes six of the top tennis players.
“The Tennis Village serves up a great atmosphere to get up-close and personal with the tennis stars through autograph and player Q&A sessions and coaching clinics. Nowhere else can tennis fans experience such thrilling interactions and get so close to their heroes.”
And Gunnarsson insists it’s not one to be missed.
She said: “Opportunities like this to see back-to-back matches between the best players in the world are rare. Matches at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship take fans straight to the equivalent of a Grand Slam quarter final, and with all the off-court action too, it’s the perfect way to spend your New Year’s weekend.”
Match tickets range from Dh100 to Dh350, depending on category and can be bought online at www.ticketmaster.ae, Virgin Megastores or at the venue.
