World Tennis League announces blockbuster swoop as Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek confirm entry

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Delight for Novak Djokovic

The World Tennis League, to be staged in Dubai in 2022, has announced the confirmation of entry from both Novak Djokovic and Iga Swiatek.

A mixed-gender team event, the World Tennis League will be the final event of the year for both Djokovic and Swiatek.

Also entered into the event are Alexander Zverev and Nick Kyrgios.

“The World Tennis League will be an event like no other,” Chairman of World Tennis League Rajesh Banga said.

“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 has won the Dubai Tennis Championships five times and is looking forward to visiting the Emirates.

“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.”

Swiatek lost in the second round when the WTA stopped off in Dubai earlier this season but has gone on to enjoy a unique and record-breaking season.

The young Pole won the French Open and US Open titles and has looked unstoppable at times.

She is hoping to have some fun in Dubai with the World Tennis League taking on an exhibition feel.

“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!”

Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina has also confirmed her entry into the World Tennis League.

Simona Halep had been set to return to the court for the event but she is now facing a suspension of a positive doping test performed during the US Open.

There has been a shakeup of the World Tennis League format this season with a player lottery set to be held on Tuesday, 1 November, where the 16-player line-up will be split into four teams of four players each, and a Round Robin format for matches across the tournament.

The top two teams will then do battle on the final day of matches to determine the overall winner of the World Tennis League in Dubai.

READ MORE: Simona Halep provisionally suspended after testing positive for banned substance

Iga Swiatek Novak Djokovic

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