Reigning champion Novak Djokovic admits he is raring to go at the upcoming Mubadala World Tennis Championship and believes the tournament is the ideal way to launch a new season.
Djokovic heads to the Abu Dhabi event later this week as defending champion and following what has been another stellar season for the world No2.
The Serbian collected seven titles last season, including his fourth Australian Open in five years, three Masters 1000 titles, the Dubai Open here in the UAE, and the season-ending ATP World Tour Finals.
After a short break, the new season gets underway next month and for Djokovic it signals the start of his attempt to reclaim the world No1 ranking he surrendered to Rafael Nadal in October.
Djokovic insists the upcoming Mubadala World Tennis Championship is vital to his preparation for the 2014 season, given the strength of opponents included in this year’s line-up.
“The Mubadala World Tennis Championship holds a special place in my heart and I’m very much looking forward to getting out in front of what is always a supportive crowd," the six-time Grand Slam champion said.
“The line-up this year is the most formidable yet so I have my work cut out.
“But looking towards the 2014 season I want to be challenged and this competition continues to deliver the perfect platform for me ahead of the season’s first major in Australia.”
Djokovic arrives at the Mubadala Championship with a flawless record; taking the title in both his previous visits to the UAE capital.
Standing in the way of a third title will be the winner of a clash between Wimbledon champion, Andy Murray and world No10 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.
Should Djokovic successfully negotiate his way through his match, and Nadal defeats the victor of David Ferrer’s contest with Stanislas Wawrinka, UAE fans could be in for a real treat for the final.
Djokovic and Nadal are undoubtedly the major forces of men’s tennis. The pair met six times in 2013, with both men winning three matches apiece.
A new member of Team Djokovic will also be in Abu Dhabi after tennis legend Boris Becker joined the Serbian’s backroom staff.
Djokovic added: "I am excited to continue working and enjoying the game, striving for some new goals.
“My team is stronger with a new member and I hope we can all get the results we desire. Abu Dhabi is perfect place to start of new tennis season."
The annual Mubadala World Tennis Championship takes place from 26th to 28th December 2013 at the Abu Dhabi International Tennis Complex, Zayed Sports City.
For fans that don’t want to miss out on the tournament’s strongest line-up yet, tickets are on sale from www.ticketmaster.ae and in selected Virgin Megastores, or call 800 TM UAE (800 86 823) with prices starting from AED 50 for children and AED 100 for adults.
