The Abu Dhabi Wilson Tennis Cup returns next month with more than 300 players expected to take part in the UAE’s most popular amateur tennis tournament.
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The record-breaking field will compete from March 6 to 27 at Zayed Sports City’s International Tennis Centre.
With 25 divisions in the Open and Cup categories, entry is open for players of all ages and skill level. A total of Dh31,500 in cash and Dh11,500 in gifts will be handed out to 31 winners at the end of the tournament.
After having 83 players in the inaugural edition in 2013, the event rapidly grew to feature 280 players last year, becoming one of
the premier amateur tournaments around.
The past two winners of the Men’s title have been former ATP No.47 ranked Peter Wessels and the UAE’s top player, Omar Behrouzian.
Wessels won the encounter between the two in the 2013 final, 6-1, 7-6, but missed last year with a knee injury.
“It is a great challenge to play against top talents and alongside rising stars,” said 32-year-old Behrouzian.
“Seeing young athletes receive their trophies and then holding mine next to them is very special for the sport.
“It is events like this that help strengthen tennis in the UAE and show other countries that we can be competitive.”
Talented juniors have also displayed their skills in the adult divisions, which this year will include UAE national team members Faris and Fahad Jahani, ITF-ranked juniors Sanjana Sudhir and Nour Nehme.
“I enjoy playing in the Abu Dhabi Wilson Tennis Cup because there are a lot of categories,” said 17-year-old Nehme. “There is a lot of experience with good players coming from all around the UAE.
“We play Junior circuit most of the time so this is a chance to play against the big guys.
“I usually play against my coach for practice, but this year I will play with coaches in the Men’s and Mixed Doubles and I’ll also play U18 and Men’s Cup Singles.”
Coaches, professional players, ATP or WTA players may only sign up to compete in the Open categories. The matches will take place after 17:00 on weekdays and from 09:00 on weekends.
Entry fees range from Dh60 to Dh150 depending on age division. Registration can be completed on-site at the International Tennis Centre or by contacting Laith Al Ani at [email protected] or 050 464 0824.
Go against some of the best players in the region and earn glory at the Abu Dhabi Wilson Tennis Cup.
What: Abu Dhabi Wilson Tennis Cup
Where: Zayed Sports City’s International Tennis Centre, Abu Dhabi
When: From March 6 to 27, with matches after 17:00 on weekdays and from 09:00 on weekends
Contact: For registration, reach Laith Al Ani at [email protected] or 050 464 0824
