ABU DHABI, December 31, 2016
As the sun sets on 2016, the world’s tennis elite are preparing to get the party started in Abu Dhabi this afternoon as the Mubadala World Tennis Championship Final takes over The Zayed Sports City’s International Tennis Centre. Before that, World No.1 Andy Murray will line-up against World No.3 Milos Raonic to decide third place, and then reigning champion Rafael Nadal will take on Belgian David Goffin for the first time in the title decider.
A few last minute tickets are still on sale for sports fans looking to get the adrenaline pumping early on New Year’s Eve, as Murray, Raonic, Nadal and Goffin promise to deliver on-court drama for all in Abu Dhabi. Fans can still get hold of tickets to end the year in style from www.ticketmaster.ae, Virgin Megastores or the box office at International Tennis Centre, The Zayed Sports City.
Before the on court theatre tonight, all six stars have been mingling with the crowds in the Tennis Village. Finalists Goffin and Nadal relaxed ahead of their impending clash by having fun at children’s tennis clinics. Raonic also spent time schooling young fans and signing merchandise.
Milos Raonic
On the importance of getting kids involved in tennis clinics at an early age, Canadian superstar Raonic said: “It’s the most important grassroots step that you can have. Myself personally, I started playing tennis because my father signed me up for a March break camp as both my parents were working so they had to keep me busy. I would have been very fortunate and very happy to have had this opportunity to participate in coaching clinics like this at a young age and it would have motivated me as well.”
Elsewhere in the Tennis Village, hundreds flocked to the Mubadala stand eagerly awaiting the arrival of Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal who delighted fans during an autograph session.
Thirteen-year-old Kamel Moufarrejwas excited to meet Nadal, said: “This is my second year at the tournament and I love it. My favourite player is Nadal. I got his autograph this year, which was so nice because last year I just saw him play, and from afar. He is just amazing.
The Mubadala World Tennis Championship concludes its ninth edition tonight (December 31st 2016). The winner takes-all prize of $250,000 will be decided between David Goffin and Rafael Nadal, and their racquets . Tickets start from AED 50. Exclusive premier hospitality packages are also available including food and limited beverages, star player meet and greets and courtside seating starting from AED 1,400. Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.ae and Virgin Megastores.
