Abu Dhabi: Feliciano Lopez is hoping to get 2015 off to a winning start as he makes his debut appearance at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi from January 1 to 3.

Lopez goes into the New Year high on confidence having achieved his highest ever position in the ATP World Tour Rankings in 2014. The world number 14 was able to climb up the standings after a solid year, which included the successful defence of his Eastbourne crown, the fourth ATP Tour title of his career.

He also appeared in the final at Queens and reached the semi-finals of the ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Toronto.

His form continued with a two-set victory over world number three and fellow countryman Rafael Nadal in Shanghai, where he advanced to the semi-finals.

“I’m really looking forward to my first appearance here in Abu Dhabi,” Lopez said. “2014 was a big year for me. I reached my highest ever ranking and was able to add to my list of titles, which is something I’m hoping to build upon further in 2015.

“With the quality of opposition, I believe kickstarting the year in Abu Dhabi is the perfect way to keep my momentum going, but it’s going to be tough with the quality of talent I’ll be up against. I’m aiming to start quickly in the first match as there would be no better way to build on last year than with a win in my first few matches of 2015.”

Should he succeed in his opening match against British number 1 Andy Murray, Lopez will be hoping to get the chance to make it two wins out of two against Nadal. The Spanish pair are on the same side of the draw and would meet on day two.

“The draw is extremely tough, there are no easy matches. First up for me is Andy Murray and, if I am able win that match, then I’ll have to face off against Rafa, which would be an amazing match to play. I’m all set for an exciting few days in the UAE playing against some of the greatest players in the game, so it should be a very special weekend.”

Six of the world’s best players will compete for the title in Abu Dhabi, with Lopez joined by world number one Novak Djokovic, Nadal, Australian Open champion Stan Wawrinka, Murray and 2012 finalist Nicolas Almagro.

Tickets are on sale at www.ticketmaster.ae and all Virgin Megastore outlets across the UAE, or by calling 800 TM UAE (800 86 823).