Dubai: Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Kevin Anderson have been confirmed for the Mubadala World Tennis Championship at Abu Dhabi’s International Tennis Centre in Zayed Sports City from December 31 to January 2.
The full line-up of players includes 14-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal, reigning French Open champion Stan Wawrinka and ATP World Tour top ten stars Milos Raonic and David Ferrer.
In-form Tsonga has had a potent year, progressing to the final four of the French Open and the quarterfinals of the US Open. In addition to his Grand Slams displays, the World No. 10 recently secured his 12th ATP World Tour title with victory in Metz, France, and also powered to the final of the Shanghai Open.
“I am really enjoying my tennis, feeling good and there is a lot to look forward to,” said Tsonga. “Abu Dhabi is a tournament which can kick start my season right from the beginning so I’m excited for the challenge.
“In previous years I’ve met so many supportive fans, and young people who are passionate about tennis [in Abu Dhabi] and it’s great to see the enthusiasm for the sport.
“I’m looking forward to getting back to the UAE capital and seeing the fans again. It’s looking like another exciting year of tennis for the UAE crowds and what better way for them to celebrate the New Year,” he added.
For South Africa’s Anderson, this will be his first appearance in Abu Dhabi but, after claiming some substantial scalps in his meteoric rise through the rankings, the World No. 12 will be quietly confident.
This year he progressed to the quarterfinals of the US Open at the expense of top seed Andy Murray, and also recorded his fourth victory over Abu Dhabi rival Wawrinka. Now, the Abu Dhabi tournament will be the perfect platform for the 29-year-old to get his new season up and running.
“I’ve heard a lot about Abu Dhabi and seen that it’s a great place for players to start the season with top competition,” he said “The lineup is really strong, really competitive and to go head-to-head with the likes of Milos, Rafa, Stan, Jo-Wilfried and David is the best way to get up to speed for the season.
“With such a strong line-up, the on court battles will be extremely competitive. I’ll be hoping to see some South African flags out there giving me support.”
Tickets can be purchased via www.ticketmaster.ae and all Virgin Megastores, or by calling 800 TMUAE (86 823) or 04-366-2289 for international calls. For more information visit www.mubadalawtc.com or www.facebook.com/mubadalaworldtennischampionship
