American rising star Krueger, 20, has made significant strides in her career in the last 12 months. In 2024, she achieved her first main-draw victory in a WTA 1000 event, ironically defeating Garcia at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
Aged just 17, Japan’s Wakana Sonobe is one of tennis’s brightest prospects and showcased her unquestionable talent by winning the girls’ singles title at the Australian Open on Saturday.
This year’s edition of the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open is set to be the most competitive yet, featuring many of the world’s best female players. Elena Rybakina will defend her title, while Bencic plays in Abu Dhabi for the first time since winning the inaugural event in 2023.
The field also includes Kasatkina, Brazil’s Beatriz Haddad Maia, Spain’s Paula Badosa, and Tunisia’s Jabeur, who is expected to receive strong support from local fans.
For the fans
Beyond world-class tennis, the event promises an enhanced spectator experience with the largest-ever Mubadala Tennis Village, spanning 15,000 sqm. Attendees can look forward to family-friendly activities, live entertainment, diverse food offerings, and interactive sports-themed activations.
Nigel Gupta, Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open Tournament Director, said: “We are thrilled to announce four more top players for this year’s tournament. Both Caroline and Marketa boast a proven pedigree at the highest level, while Ashlyn and Wakana arrive as two of the sport’s rising stars.
“They join a brilliant line-up of talent and, with less than one week to go until the start of the event, we are set for the most exciting Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open to date.”
AED 25. 1-8 February, International Tennis Centre. For further information, visit mubadalaabudhabiopen.com
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