Dubai: For the second consecutive year Dubai Sports City is sponsoring the Legends 'Rock' Dubai Tennis Tournament in 2008 which brings some of the biggest names in tennis to the UAE, demonstrating the project's commitment to growing sports events and in encouraging youth interest in sports.
"The Legends 'Rock' Dubai is a hugely popular competition as it gives fans the chance to see some of the legendary players who no longer compete on the international tennis circuit but who are still very much in demand," said Malcolm Thorpe, Marketing Director, Sports Business at Dubai Sports City.
"The overall event presentation, particularly involving the kids day and pro-am and the relaxed overall atmosphere of the event fit well with our own philosophy of making sports educational and fun," added Thorpe.
Confirmed players' line-up include former world number one Jim Courier, former Wimbledon champion Stefan Edberg, Spanish tennis hero Sergi Bruguera, and former doubles world number one and 2007 The Legends 'Rock' Dubai Champion Paul Haarhuis.
Iranian tennis genius Mansour Bahrami will join in for the doubles exhibition matches.
Developing talent
Dubai Sports City is scheduled to open The David Lloyd Tennis Academy in early in 2010. The academy will operate with the goal of developing talented youngsters on court through developing modern techniques, hard work, dedication and determination.
Former British Davis Cup Captain David Lloyd is creating an environment where everyone can learn, develop and grow as well as participate in leagues and events for more competitive players.
"Who better than the likes of Jim Courier and Stefan Edberg to inspire the UAE's next generation of tennis champions. This year's tournament will provide audiences with plenty of inspiration and entertainment, and we are thrilled to be a part of it," Thorpe added.
As part of the Outback Champions Series, the leading competitive senior tennis tournament, the event will be held at the Dubai Tennis Stadium at The Aviation Club on November 19-22 and is organised by Delwood.
The 2008 Outback Champions Series features eight events where champion tennis players continue to exercise their competitive instincts in tournament formats.
To be eligible to compete on the Outback Champions Series, players must have reached a Grand Slam singles final, been ranked in the top five in the world or played singles on a championship Davis Cup team.
The programme will start on November 19 with a round robin format of two groups of three, which means spectators will enjoy two competitive singles and one entertaining doubles match each day.
The finals and prize-giving ceremony will be held on November 22.
