So it comes as no surprise to see the queues of tennis fans pictured above queue outside Dubai Tennis Stadium since the early hours this morning waiting patiently to secure their seats.

 

All 10 out of the top 10 women's players in the world will grace the court at the Dubai Tennis Championships from February 14, organisers have announced and at least seven of the top 10 men's players will be in action for the ATP tournament at the same venue the following week. The lineup including both men's and women's defending champions Novak Djokovic and Venus Williams, as well as four-time champion and world No. 1 Roger Federer.

 

Dubai is one of the most prestigious events on both the ATP and WTA Tour calendars, with total prize money of $4 million up for grabs to the winners this year.

 

"To have all of the top 10 women and seven of the top 10 men confirmed for the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships 2010 is a remarkable and unprecedented achievement and indicates the importance of the tournament amongst the players themselves," said Colm McLoughlin, managing director of tournament owners and organisers Dubai Duty Free.

 

"This is made all the more special due to the fact we are celebrating a milestone year for the Championships - the 18th anniversary of the Men's Open and 10th anniversary of the Women's Open.

"The lineup for this year's tournament speaks volumes and is a testament to just how far the Championships has come since we began it all back in 1993", he added.

 

This year's tournament will see Federer attempting to win his fifth Dubai title, after his last victory in 2007. After missing out last year due to injury, the player that many believe is the greatest of all time will be determined to add to his already impressive tally of 4 ATP titles in Dubai.

 

CF Tennis are, as always are thrilled to be involved in such a prestigious event, our Ball Kid training is well underway and the kids are all enjoying the experience.

 

Being a ball-kid is not just about only playing tennis, it is a great experience. The CF Tennis Centre ensures that each child gets individual attention. We give a lot of emphasis on fitness, as it is important that ball kids be able to function well throughout. These 150 kids are divided into 13 teams, with 11 or 12 kids in each team. Each team functions under a captain. 

 

Many ball kids have acknowledged the experience as memorable. Not only do they get to meet their heroes but all selected children can participate in tennis clinics and tennis shows during the championship.

 

We are all looking forward to an exciting tournament ahead.