ATP world number one Andy Murray and seven time Dubai champion Roger Federer are back in Dubai for the 25th anniversary of the Dubai Duty Free Championships, and took some time out from serious practice for an impromptu match on the beach facing the iconic Burj Al Arab at the Jumeirah Al Naseem hotel.
Murray and Federer haven’t played since the Australian Open, which saw Federer win his 18th Grand Slam title in spectacular style. With Tournament Director Salah Tahlak on hand to umpire, the beach seemed the perfect place to warm up for the ATP Tournament which kicks off on Monday 27th February.
Federer is happy to be back at one of his favourite tournaments, saying “I’m looking forward to playing, especially on the anniversary of 25 years here in Dubai. It’s nice to be part of a tournament celebrating something. I’ve had some great years here in Dubai, I wanted to be in good shape and ready for the conditions so I came early this year".
Wimbledon, Olympic and ATP Finals champion Murray said “It was good fun today playing on the beach, I’ve never done that and the sun came out for us so that was a good start to the day. I enjoy coming to Dubai, I’ve played here a number of years. I feel fresh, I’ve had a long break since the Australian Open and I feel refreshed and looking forward to competing again”.
Tickets are still available from the Box Office at the Dubai Tennis Stadium, Garhoud which opens from 9am to 9pm daily. Tickets are also available online through http://www.dubaidutyfreetennischampionships.com/en/tickets.