It's going to be an open tournament, says Agut

Dubai - Agut has never gone past the quarterfinal stage here in Dubai

Spanish star Roberto Bautista Agut is relishing the chance to go deep into the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
Agut has never gone past the quarterfinal stage here in Dubai and the absence of top stars like Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka has offered players like him the chance to make a big impact.
"Of course. I think the circuit now, it's more equal. We have a lot of players playing really good level of tennis. Everything is more equal," the world number 22 told reporters on Sunday. "As you said, I think this tournament is going to be more open because there are not many top-10 players. I think everybody can play well here.
"In the past I played many matches against Novak (Djokovic). In Dubai it was really tough draw every year. So it's a great opportunity now. I'm seeded. I hope to have a great week here."
But the third seed Agut faces a tough first-round match against the experienced German player Florian Mayer.
"Well, I'm going to try to play better. But here the draw is tough. Everyone can play good here. The flying conditions makes the matches close. I think it's going to be crucial to play well on the courts in the important moments," the 29-year-old Spaniard said.
Agut, who began the New Year with a victory in the Auckland final over Juan Martin Del Potro, says he is feeling good coming to the Dubai tournament.
"Well, I started the season playing very well. I didn't play well last two weeks. Well, I came early to get used to the conditions. Here the ball flies a bit more. I had already three days of practice, and ready to play tomorrow.
"It's a really good tournament, really special tournament for me in my schedule. I always come to play here in Dubai. I think it's a great opportunity to have a great week here."
rituraj@khaleejtimes.com