In conversation with IMG tournament director Vickie Gunnarsson

1. What is new in MWTC this year?

Year after year we make sure the Mubadala World Tennis Championship improves, getting better every year. Now in the eighth instalment we're welcoming more new tennis talent to the tournament. For the first time Canadian star Milos Ranoic will showcase his skills to the UAE crowds while South Africa's Kevin Anderson also makes his Abu Dhabi debut this year. The new stars will give tennis fans in Abu Dhabi the chance to see even more elite competition as they face off against the likes of Rafael Nadal, Stan Wawrinka and David Ferrer.

Also new for this year, MWTC will launch its new merchandise line and we have new activations in the tennis village, brand new seats in the stadium and the hospitality experience has been upgraded. We have also added a Championship for the top UAE National players in order to boost tennis interest amongst locals in the UAE. But most importantly we have new and hungry players in the line-up who will be looking forward to getting their hands on the trophy.

2. What activities does the MWTC include?

In addition to the centre court action, children and families can enjoy exploring the Tennis Village, selfie-booths with the stars, Kids' Day and exclusive coaching sessions. Also, beyond the stunning display of world-class tennis in Abu Dhabi, the Championship gives the UAE's youth the chance to learn, play and enjoy tennis through two inspirational initiatives; the Mubadala Tennis in Schools Programme paves the way for the new tennis generation and the Mubadala Community Cup offers adults and children the opportunity of a lifetime to play alongside their tennis idols.

3. How do you find the fans turnout in attending the tournament?

The Mubadala World Tennis Championship is always a capacity event and has firmly established its position on the annual sporting calendar. With time running out until the tournament kicks off we encourage the public to get their tickets as quickly as possible to avoid disappointment. This year we've got another stunning line-up and we're bringing some new players to Abu Dhabi for one of the most competitive tournaments yet, so we expect a thrilling atmosphere.

4. What is the future vision for MWTC? Do you think it is possible that it will one day become a certified championship amongst the rankings of the game?

Our future vision for MWTC is to continue to build on its lasting legacy for tennis in the UAE. The championship holds various community programmes that raise awareness of the benefits of tennis and the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle such as the Mubadala Tennis in

Schools and the Mubadala Community Cup. We are always looking at the best way to grow the tournament but at the momentthe current format is working great for Abu Dhabi.

5. How can tennis enthusiasts benefit from MWTC?

The MWTC has it all from a legendary tennis line up to all the excitement and fun fans want to celebrate the New Year with friends and family. Through autograph and photography sessions, access to the players warm up sessions and even coaching clinics with the players, tennis fans and the community at large enjoy watching a stellar line up of tennis players fiercely competing to start the year with a win. This unique experience is found nowhere else but at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship, Abu Dhabi.