Abu Dhabi: Rafael Nadal will have one thing on his mind when he kick-starts his 2010 campaign at the Capitala World Tennis Championships in Abu Dhabi later this month — that's playing well.
The Spanish star, who enjoyed a 46-week reign at No 1, says he is looking forward to putting an injury-plagued year behind him and focusing on getting back to playing his best tennis.
"At the moment I just want to focus on playing well, winning matches and staying injury free during 2010."
"It all starts in Abu Dhabi and I can't wait to return to the event and compete against what is another strong line-up of the world's best players.
"The event is a great way to start the year and is the perfect warm up for the Australian Open. The fans and warm hospitality in Abu Dhabi make it a really enjoyable tournament to begin the season and I am very much looking forward to coming back."
Despite missing more than two months with knee problems, Nadal still enjoyed plenty of success on the court, including his sixth career Grand Slam crown at the Australian Open.
The Mallorca native won another five titles for the fifth straight year which saw him ranked No 1 for the first half of 2009. He also ended the year on a high after Spain sealed back-to-back Davis Cup wins following victory over the Czech Republic to become the first nation to successfully defend the title since Sweden in 1998.
In demand
Tickets for the event, which takes place from December 31 to January 2, 2010 at the Abu Dhabi International Tennis Complex at Zayed Sports City, are selling fast and can be purchased through www.boxofficeme.com or through selected Spinney's outlets.
Prices start from just Dh65 and provide access to a multitude of other activities beyond the tennis, including the ‘Tennis Village' which offers catering outlets and family areas.
