Tennis will be seen in a whole new avatar as Dubai is gearing up to host the first-ever World Tennis League, which will feature some of the marquee and box-office names of the sport piling their trade in an event dubbed as 'the greatest show on court'. Novak Djokovic, who is a 21-time Grand Slam champion, leads the men's field while World No. 1 Iga Swiatek heads the women's lime-up for the upcoming competition, scheduled to take place at the Coca Cola Arena from December 19 to December 24.
The six-day tournament will offer fans unparalleled entertainment as court-side concerts are planned for the ticket-holders with artists including Dutch DJ superstars Tiesto and Armin Van Buuren are billed to perform.
The chairman of the inaugural World Tennis League, Rajesh Banga has affirmed that the upcoming competition will be an 'event like no other'.
"The World Tennis League will be an event like no other. It brings a unique and engaging new format to the game of tennis, offering a spectacular mix of sport and entertainment together. We can’t wait to welcome fans from around the globe for this momentous event that hails a new era for tennis." he said.
The Serbian superstar, Djokovic is probably the biggest attraction as he is looking forward to participate in the 'exciting' tournament.
"This new event is exciting, there’s no doubt about it. I absolutely love playing in Dubai, I’ve had a lot of success there over the years and really enjoy the fans. This is something different, and it’s going to be great being a part of it," he said.
Meanwhile, Swiatek said when the sport is combined with 'great show and music', it's even better for the fans.
"I like it most when tennis connects people and when it’s true entertainment. When it’s combined with a great show and music, it’s even better, so that’s the reason why I’m excited to join this year’s World Tennis League. I’m happy that together with other top players we’ll introduce tennis as fun to new audiences. I can’t wait," she said.
Apart from Djokovic, the men's field will also have Alexander Zverev and Nick Kyrgios while the women's field will see Simona Halep and current Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina join Swiatek.
