Events

Coca-Cola Arena to debut World Tennis League

Featured image credit: Coca-Cola Arena

Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena has been announced as the host of the World Tennis League (WTL), an event featuring leading stars such as Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek that is promising to create a “new era” for the sport.

Taking place from December 19-24, the WTL has been designed to combine tennis with entertainment. Singles and mixed doubles matches will be played across two sets, with a 10-point tie-breaker set to decide the final outcome if needed.

After play each evening ticket holders for the so-called ‘Greatest Show on Court’ will be able to take in a concert featuring top artists from around the globe, with Dutch DJ superstars, Tiësto and Armin Van Buuren, the first acts to be confirmed.

Rajesh Banga, chairman of World Tennis League, said today (Friday): “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.”

Djokovic, a 21-time grand slam champion, heads the men’s field, with current world No.1 and 2022 French Open and US Open champion, Iga Swiatek, leading the women’s entry list.

Joining the men’s field are world No.5 Alexander Zverev, and the resurgent Nick Kyrgios, one of the most colourful characters on the ATP Tour. From the women’s field, former world No.1 and current No.9, Simona Halep, and current Wimbledon champion, Elena Rybakina, add to a strong line-up of tennis talent.

A lottery will be held on November 1, where the 16-player line-up will be split into four teams of four players each who will compete in a round robin format in matches across the tournament. 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.