Federer and Murray play beach tennis in Dubai

Sport360 staff 15:34 24/02/2017
Friends off court: Federer and Murray in Dubai.

The star-studded duo took some time out from serious practice for an impromptu match on the beach facing the iconic Burj Al Arab at the Jumeirah Al Naseem hotel on Friday.

Murray and Federer haven’t played since the Australian Open, as the Swiss maestro went on to win his 18th Grand Slam with a famous victory over Rafael Nadal.

But now back at his home from home in Dubai, the city where he often trains, Federer took on Murray on the beach as tournament Director Salah Tahlak umpired.

It was the perfect place to warm up for the ATP Tournament which kicks off on Monday 27 February.

“I’m looking forward to playing, especially on the anniversary of 25 years here in Dubai. It’s nice to be part of a tournament celebrating something. I’ve had some great years here in Dubai, I wanted to be in good shape and ready for the conditions so I came early this year,” 35-year-old Federer said.

“The players like this tournament so much, it’s well organized, and well run with good crowds, and with the hotel and everything on site it’s so convenient.

“Today was a nice way to start the celebrations of 25 years, now I can’t wait for the tournament to start.”

Wimbledon, Olympic and ATP Finals champion Murray, added: “It was good fun today playing on the beach, I’ve never done that and the sun came out for us so that was a good start to the day.

“I enjoy coming to Dubai, I’ve played here a number of years. I feel fresh, I’ve had a long break since the Australian Open and I feel refreshed and looking forward to competing again”.

The 25th staging of the ATP World Tour event runs from 27 February until 4 March, and also features defending Dubai champion Stan Wawrinka, two-time Dubai finalist Tomas Berdych and the entertaining Gael Monfils.

Tickets are still available from the Box Office at the Dubai Tennis Stadium, Garhoud which opens from 9am to 9pm daily. Tickets are also available online through http://www.dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com/en/tickets For further information about tickets, prices and the tournament visit www.dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com.

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