The Spanish supremo will join Novak Djokovic and Venus Williams at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship.

Rafael Nadal will once again set the courts alight when he returns to Abu Dhabi for the Mubadala World Tennis Championship.

The Spanish tennis star adds to a star-studded line-up for the eagerly anticipated event, which will take place at Zayed Sports City from December 27 to 29. Other aces to have been confirmed include 14-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic, and seven-time winner Venus Williams, as well as Kevin Anderson, Dominic Thiem, Hyeon Chung and Karen Khachanov.

ALSO READ: Novak Djokovic and Venus Williams to compete in Abu Dhabi later this year

Nadal – who has 17 Grand Slam wins under his belt – will be making his 10th appearance at the MWTC. Last year, he was forced to withdraw due to his gruelling schedule.

“Abu Dhabi is one of my favourite places to play, the climate, atmosphere and enthusiasm from the crowds at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship provides the perfect start to the new season,” Nadal said in a statement.

“The tournament brings together players at the top of their game; we all relish playing in these extremely competitive matches.”

Now in its 11th year, the MWTC offers spectators the equivalent of a Grand Slam quarter-final, and is seen by many as the first tournament leading into the Australian Open.

There’s plenty of action off the courts, as well. A dedicated Tennis Village will offer a packed schedule of activities across all three days of the tournament, with themed experiences including a kids’ day, foodies’ day, and ladies’ day.

MWTC, International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi, December 27 to 29, tickets from Dhs100. Tel: (800) 86 823. ticketmaster.ae 

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