High-profile sporting events wouldn't be the same without a good crowd of spectators.
Open to the public, it's the everyday folk who create the atmosphere which makes tournaments what they are. But with big bucks up for grabs for the players, it is important to mind your manners.
Here's the basics as well a few more practical tips and requests for all spectators — via the umpire of course — for "quiet please".
Loud noise and colour
Whether it's face or body painting, colour-coded outfits or hair spray, tennis fans are slowly going to more and more effort to support their favourites.
While colour and noise are good, try and be respectful of the players as they serve and play rallies, as the pressure is on.
Noise is good. Muffled cheers from neighbouring courts can inspire players to try and raise the same level of response from those watching them play. Cheers, shouts and chants will only make them more pumped. Just be careful to keep it in check — don't get too excited during a rally; wait until the ball is dead. Do not shout during serve.
Watch the weather
While rain rarely stops play in Dubai (apart from last year) we have the other extreme to think about — the harsh rays of the sun.
Remember sunscreen and most importantly your sunglasses — this event is unbearable without them. Lots of water is also required, unless you want someone scraping you from your chair and into an ambulance. The need for a light jumper is hard to imagine when you're sitting in the afternoon rays but beware, it soon goes down and can get a little chilly.
A ‘Hello Mum' sign is guaranteed to get you on television if that's your thing.
Oh sit down
Tennis crowds are extremely close to the action, so always be conscious of your movements. Only move around (for drinks, food, toilet breaks) when necessary and respect the ushers who will stop you walking when play starts until the next ‘down' time. Be warned — you only have 90 seconds before play resumes between games and sets.
A flash and a phone
Flash cameras and mobile phones should not be used at all. If you want to be the annoying, disrespectful person who doesn't have the courtesy for world-class sportspeople then go ahead and leave it on and take that important work call. Alternatively, just stay at work.
Tennis Neck
It's natural instinct and large portions of the crowd will all be looking at exactly the same point of the court — the little yellow ball — at all times. Nobody wants to miss a vital point, so no matter how disciplined you think you are, be prepared for a sore neck. We recommend a good neck massage at the end of the day.
