Organisers unveil plan for fans at Abu Dhabi tennis tournament

As excitement builds towards the UAE's best weekend of tennis, Flash Entertainment has revealed an unmissable first day for the Mubadala World Tennis Championship on Thursday, including a new and free ‘Kids Morning' in the Tennis Village. ‘Kids Morning' takes place within this year's new and expanded Tennis Village from 9:30am at the International Tennis Complex, Zayed Sports City. An action-packed morning will see aspiring young tennis players receive free coaching from 10am to 11am, before gaining some tips from David Ferrer and Roger Federer, who will also take part in an exclusive kid's question time from 11am to midday. The thrill for fans continues in the Tennis Village before the first ball is even struck, as Spanish sensation and world No. 2 Rafael Nadal signs autographs from 2pm, ahead of Swiss all-time Grand-Slam Champion Federer, who will meet his followers at 2:30pm. The action then moves to centre court for the opening match of this year's Championship, as world No. 5 Ferrer takes on French favourite world No. 6 Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. This battle will be closely followed by the eagerly-anticipated debut of Novak Djokovic, the most dominant player of the 2011 ATP World Tour season, who clashes with Gael Monfils, also making his Abu Dhabi debut. Shatha Al Romaithi, of organisers Flash Entertainment, said: "Once again the arrival of the world's leading tennis stars for the start of the global tennis in Abu Dhabi has proved hugely popular, with only a very limited number of tickets still available for the opening day. Day Two is already completely sold out, so the atmosphere inside the stadium will be electric. "Free kids activities on day one of the championship will allow everyone to share in this special occasion and provide youngsters with memories for life. No other tournament in the world provides such an incredible opportunity to get close to the stars and learn directly from them. "Outside the centre court, the new and improved Interactive Zone will give every fan the chance to pick up a racquet and get involved, regardless of having a ticket for the championship. Our aim for the Mubadala World Tennis Championship is to inspire people to play more tennis, get more active and have a great time whilst they do it - and the Tennis Village will definitely encourage more people to play." Visitors will also be able to view the practice courts as the star players warm up and hold exclusive tennis clinics for winners of the Mubadala Community Cup. Tickets for the opening day and final day - Thursday and Saturday - are available at www.thinkflash.ae or from 800 Flash (35274). For more information visit www.mubadalawtc.com