Kasatkina set for another Mubadala Open title challenge

Daria Kasatkina (L) poses with Elena Rybakina (R) after Mubadala Open 2024 final

Daria Kasatkina, the 2024 Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open runner-up, will return for another crack at the prestigious crown when the tournament returns to the International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City from February 1–8.

The 27-year-old Russian overcame Brazilian Beatriz Haddad Maia in a third-set tiebreaker to reach this year’s final, before being beaten by Elena Rybakina.

Kasatkina is currently ranked ninth on the WTA Tour rankings and in a streak of good form having clinched the Ningo Open in China last month for her eighth Tour title.

Kasatkina said: "I’m thrilled to be returning for another shot at the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open title. Last year’s tournament was an incredible experience, competing in front of such passionate fans, and reaching the final was unforgettable.

“While on that occasion I came up short against a very strong opponent, it has only fueled my determination to go one step further this time. I’m feeling confident in my game, and I’m looking forward to competing once again in Abu Dhabi.”

Kasatkina will again face world class opposition in Abu Dhabi with several of the elite field already announced, including 2023 winner Belinda Bencic of Switzerland, who is returning after missing out this year following the birth of her daughter.

Dubai resident and former World number 2, Paula Badosa of Spain, who is currently 12th in the rankings, is also confirmed along with Haddad Maia, twice a losing semi-finalist in Abu Dhabi. Fan favourite, Ons Jabeur, will once again take part in the event after reaching the quarter-finals this year.

More from Sports News

  • Manchester City striker Haaland suffers ankle injury

    Manchester City's Erling Haaland sustained an ankle injury in their FA Cup quarter-final at Bournemouth over the weekend, the Premier League club said on Monday, with the striker requiring further tests to determine the full extent of the injury.

  • Rory McIlroy battling injury with Masters approaching

    Rory McIlroy acknowledged he is dealing with an elbow injury as he prepares to head to Augusta for next week's Masters. The World No. 2 made a spirited run up the leaderboard at the Texas Children's Houston Open on Sunday, carding a 4-under 31 on the front nine that included an eagle.

  • Caitlin Clark sports card sets record after selling at auction

    WNBA star Caitlin Clark's 2024 Panini Prizm WNBA Signatures Gold Vinyl Prizm card, numbered 1-of-1, has set a record sale for a female sports card after going under the hammer for $366,000 (AED 1.3 million) at auction.

  • Saka ready to return, says Arsenal manager Arteta

    Arsenal's Bukayo Saka could make his long-awaited return against Fulham in the Premier League on Tuesday after recovering from a hamstring injury, his manager Mikel Arteta said.

Blogs