THE world’s best tennis players are set to return to Dubai this month for the 2013 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship, one of the most eagerly anticipated events on the UAE Sporting Calendar, and one of the most popular tournaments on the international tennis circuit.
After celebrating the 20th anniversary of in fine style last year, the event will again feature almost every top player in the world, as they battle it out for the coveted Dubai title.
Following a thrilling win in the final last year, five time champion Roger Federer will be back to delight the crowds as he takes on world number 1 Novak Djokovic in the men’s tournament, while in the women’s event defending champion Agnieszka Radwanska will be up against World number 1 Victoria Azarenka, and perennial favourite Serena Williams.
Staged at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium in Garhoud, the tournament will run from February 18 to March 2 with the action commencing with the $2 million WTA event, followed on February 25 by the $2 million ATP tournament.
Commenting on this year’s event, Colm McLoughlin, executive vice chairman of Dubai Duty Free, the tournament owners and organisers, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming the world’s best players back to Dubai. We are looking forward to some thrilling matches, with so many great players here the fans will be able to see world class tennis on every day of the tournament.
“With the men’s and women’s World Number One players here, along with the current holders of five Grand Slam crowns and both defending champions from last year, Dubai tennis fans are set for a sporting treat second to none” he added.
The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice-president and prime minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.