Former champions, Australian Open high fliers set for Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

DUBAI: Australian Open finalist Danielle Collins and quarterfinalist Gael Monfils will be among the strong field set to take part in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships later this month.

Many players who performed with distinction in Australia will soon be packing their bags to travel to Dubai, and almost every one of the world’s top 20 female players will battle for the title, including four former winners and defending champion Garbine Muguruza.

“We are eagerly looking forward to seeing the many players who have played so well in Australia also competing here in Dubai,” said Colm McLoughlin, executive vice chairman and CEO of Dubai Duty Free. “As well as welcoming back five Dubai champions, there are many others who have also performed with distinction at the DDFTC without being able to win the trophy, and we are thrilled that they are returning to try once again. We wish everyone well.”

Among those who will be full of confidence will be Iga Swiatek, after her inspiring run to the Australian Open semifinals. Earlier in January she also reached the semifinals in Adelaide, defeating US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez and former world number one Victoria Azarenka before falling to Ashleigh Barty.

Others to watch out for include Australian Open quarterfinalists Jessica Pegula, who fell to eventual champion Barty and late last year overcame two-time Dubai champion Elina Svitolina at Indian Wells, and 2021 Dubai finalist Barbora Krejcikova, who not only did well in Melbourne but excelled in reaching the Sydney final.

Competition for a place in the main draw has been tougher than ever, and that means many players of the highest quality will need to play in the qualifying rounds. Among those competing for a place is