An all new tennis tournament is headed to Dubai this December, and it’s featuring some of the biggest names in the sport.
The World Tennis League, set to take place at the Coca-Cola Arena from December 19-24, will be held in a round robin format, featuring a 16-player line-up that will be split in to four teams of four players each.
The format will be run under two-set battles across both singles and mixed doubles matches, with a 10-point tie-breaker set to decide the final outcome, only if needed.
The top two teams will then face off in a final day of matches to determine the overall winner of the World Tennis League in Dubai.
The teams will be decided on November 1 through a player lottery.
Watch the launch video for the World Tennis League below:
After each day, a concert is set to be held, with Tiesto and Armin Van Buren to headline the opening and closing evenings of the World Tennis League.
Novak Djokovic, arguably the best men’s player in history, heads the men’s field, with world number one Iga Swiatek leading the women’s entry list.
“This new event is exciting, there’s no doubt about it,” said Djokovic. 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.”
“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!”
For the organizer, this is the start of a potential new tradition in Dubai, already a huge tennis town, with global superstars headed each year to the country.
“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.” Says Rajesh Banga, Chairman of World Tennis League.
Djokovic is no stranger to success, with 21 Grand Slam titles including nine Australian Opens, two French Opens, seven Wimbledons and three US Opens to his name, in addition to his together with five ATP Tour Finals titles. Swiatek, a WTA fan favourite, comes to Dubai following her Grand Slam victories at the French Open and US Open in 2022.
Want to get tickets? Find more here.