Andy Murray on Wednesday confirmed he will join fellow tennis luminaries Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi between January 1 and 3.
The two-time grand slam champion and 2012 Olympic gold medallist said he was greatly looking forward to his fourth appearance at the season-opening tournament, which will also feature 2014 Australian Open champion Stan Wawrinka.
World number 11 Murray won the event in its inaugural year in 2009, overcoming 14-time major champion Nadal in a three-set final.
The Briton, who was beaten by world number one Novak Djokovic in the US Open quarter-finals last week, said: “I played some good tennis, but I think I can do better. The grand slams are over for this year now and I’m already looking forward to the start of next season, which for me will be in Abu Dhabi at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship.
“It’s a symbolic start date this year on January 1, representing the first tournament of the season and the first matches of the year. The line-up so far is incredibly strong and, after the winter break, we should all be back firing on all cylinders, which is going to mean exciting tennis for the fans in Abu Dhabi.”
The Scot is particularly relishing the chance to lock horns with Djokovic and Nadal, who have won the event five times between them.
He added: “With players like Rafa and Novak, I know just how hard it is going to be, but we only get better by testing ourselves against the best. Last year, I really felt the support of the fans and I’m hoping everyone will come out on New Year’s Day to back us again.”
The tournament will supplement the on-court action with the Tennis Village, where players will hold clinics and sign autographs.
Tickets are on sale at www.ticketmaster.ae and all Virgin Megastore outlets across the UAE, or can be bought by calling 800 TM UAE (86 823).
Prices start from Dh50 for upper-bowl seating, with exclusive premier hospitality packages also available, including food and beverage offers, star player meet-and-greets and premier stadium seating. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix ticket-holders redeeming their Y1 Access benefits will receive a 20 per cent discount on Category 2 tickets.
Y1 Access is the money-off advantage programme for buyers of tickets to the annual F1 race and extends across a selection of major Flash Entertainment concerts and events until February 2015.
