‘It really deserves respect’ – Novak Djokovic explains why Mubadala attracts the top players

ATP Tour

Tennis365
December 22, 2019

Novak Djokovic has hailed the Mubadala World Tennis Championship as a perfect environment to prepare for the season, and vowed to always try to be part of it.

The Serb beat Karen Khachanov on Saturday to finish third behind Rafael Nadal and Stefanos Tsitsipas in the prestigious exhibition event.

He though, says it will always be a hugely valuable tournament for players.

“This is really unique,” Djokovic said after his win over the Russian.

“It’s somewhat of a tradition of mine to come to Abu Dhabi and Dubai for preparations and play the tournament here.

“You don’t get too many exhibition tournaments around the world featuring top players every year and that really deserves respect. And this tournament is valued a lot by best players.

“It’s half-way to Australia from Europe. So chances are high that I will come back to Abu Dhabi as long as I play professionally.

“I would also love to visit Abu Dhabi when I am not participating in this tournament as this is an impressive place.

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“It offers a lot of great resorts for families and this time of the year we get to spend quality family time, train well, and play high-quality competitive matches.

“Really, it’s the best kind of package you can look for as a tennis player.”

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Novak Djokovic