Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka will make their long-awaited return to tennis at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship (MWTC) in Abu Dhabi this December, the tournament announced on Tuesday.
Both players have not played since Wimbledon and pulled the plug early on their respective 2017 seasons, with Djokovic taking a break from the game to nurse a lingering elbow problem while Wawrinka underwent knee surgery.
The pair join Rafael Nadal, Dominic Thiem, Milos Raonic and Pablo Carreno Busta in the landmark 10th edition of the MWTC, taking place at Zayed Sports City from December 28 — 30.
Djokovic, who welcomed his second child and first daughter — named Tara — in September, is a three-time champion in Abu Dhabi but his last appearance at the event saw him hand Andy Murray a walkover in the final of the January 2015 edition.
“I am extremely excited to return to Abu Dhabi for the fifth time and take part in the 10th edition of the Championship,” said Djokovic.
“It is a huge honour to take part in such a special tournament. The line-up is very strong as always and it will be the perfect way to make my comeback and begin the season. Abu Dhabi is an amazing place and this is going to be a great event for all of the fans.β
Wawrinka, who had a second surgery on his knee in August, will be making his fifth MWTC appearance.
βIt is always a pleasure to kick the season off at the beautiful event in Abu Dhabi,β said the Swiss.
βThe fans are amazing there and the draw is as strong as always with a lot of great players. My recovery is going well and I canβt wait to be back on court. Iβm working hard together with my team and looking forward to being back.β
To celebrate the 10th edition, MWTC will be giving those who purchase tickets in the next ten days, a chance to win signed merchandise by either Wawrinka or Djokovic.
Tickets for the MWTC are on sale at www.ticketmaster.ae and all Virgin Megastores across the UAE. For more information, visit: www.mubadalawtc.com.
