(18 December 2011)
Following an electrifying season, World Number 1 Djokovic has arrived in Abu Dhabi, as he prepares for his debut at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship from 29th to 31st December, where he is set to take on Gael Monfils on an incredible Day One for the tournament.
Following a season that was dubbed as his ’make or break’ year, Djokovic has proved his worth with an unbelievable 41-match winning streak, immerging from his ranking as number 3 behind Nadal and Federer, to realize his lifelong ambition to become the World Number 1.
Speaking from the Mubadala Interactive Tennis Zone on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, having arrived early to enjoy a relaxing festive break and start preparations for the season ahead, Djokovic said; "It’s great to be in Abu Dhabi for the first time. With the sun out and first class facilities, it already seems like an ideal way to kick off my season. With such a strong line-up and my defence of the Australian Open only weeks ahead, I’m here to prepare and the best preparation is winning.
"I am looking forward to experiencing all that Abu Dhabi has to offer - from great tennis to Coldplay for New Year. I have heard great things about the Emirate and the crowds in Abu Dhabi - there will be some real battles out on centre court and I am to give the fans what they want with some attacking tennis." Welcoming Djokovic to Abu Dhabi, Shaza Al-Rumaithi, FLASH Entertainment commented: "Each year this tournament strives to be the very best with sensational player line ups and once-in-a-lifetime experiences for all fans. Having Novak, a player that has shown that same appetite to be the best and challenge the world-order is very fitting. Just like Novak this tournament has come of age and truly marks the start of the global tennis season.
"With the World Number 1 already in Abu Dhabi ahead of the most exciting day one line-up in the tournament’s history means it’s nearly show-time for all sports fans. With Novak playing on 29th December, you know there is going to be some explosive tennis on centre court. It’s not to be missed." Amina Taher, Group Communications Manager at Mubadala, the title sponsor of the tournament, added: "There is no finer example of Mubadala’s commitment to take this tennis into the community than having the reigning World Number 1 take time to visit the Mubadala Interactive Tennis Zone."