ABU DHABI // Andy Murray today became the fourth player confirmed to appear in the elite Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi, joining Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Stan Wawrinka.
The Briton, Mubadala champion in 2009, will be making his fourth appearance in the six-man exhibition that serves as the season-opening competition in men’s tennis.
Murray has won two major titles, the 2012 US Open and Wimbledon in 2013. Among them, the four players confirmed for the January 1-3 event at Zayed Sports City have won 24 grand slam events.
Murray’s 2014 season has been marked by nagging injuries and frustration in the major events. He was knocked out in the quarter-finals of three majors and in the semi-finals at the French Open.
The 27-year-old Scot has not won since last year’s Wimbledon, and his world ranking is 11.
“I played some good tennis, but I think I can do better,” he said after the US Open. “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 ...
“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.”
Murray 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 $250,000 winner-take-all tournament is sponsored by Flash Entertainment in partnership with Mubadala.
The 2015 tournament will be the seventh since its 2009 debut.
Tickets for January’s Mubadala World Tennis Championship are on sale at www.ticketmaster.ae and all Virgin Megastore outlets across the UAE or by calling 800 TM UAE (86 823).
Prices start from Dh50 for upper-bowl seating, with hospitality packages also available including food and beverage offers, player meet-and-greets and premier stadium seating.
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