Svetlana Kuznetsova Eyes Off Dubai Tennis Championships

- Russian star looking to go one step further and take out the 2007 Dubai Duty Free Women’s Open -

Dubai, UAE, January 22nd, 2007: Former US Open champion Svetlana Kuznetsova will next month make another bid for the Dubai Tennis Championships title she has twice come so close to winning.

The amiable Russian contested the final in 2004 and reached the semi-finals last year, both times falling to eventual champion Justine Henin-Hardenne. In 2005 she unintentionally provided a massive boost to the career of Indian icon Sania Mirza, who claimed her biggest win by beating Kuznetsova in a dramatic first round battle.

“I have good memories, even though I lost first round one year,” said Kuznetsova. “My run-up to the top started there when I reached the final. I really enjoyed that week. Last year I beat Amelie Mauresmo there for the first time too, so I’ve always loved being in Dubai. I enjoy it a lot.”

Kuznetsova and others long ago discovered that there is far more to do than play their matches when they come to Dubai, and they look forward all year to the off-court opportunities that offer endless shopping and other activities.

“My favourite thing is to buy some diamonds,” Kuznetsova said. “I almost don’t do it because I see so many that I don’t know what to get. And I know some girls last year went to ski and play tennis on snow, so I’d like to go and do some snowboarding, just a little bit for fun. It’s different. I think it’s cool, and I’m looking forward to doing it this year.”

After a challenging 2005 season, Kuznetsova made massive strides during 2006 to reach the final of the French Open, win three titles and climb back towards the top of the rankings. Now she once again has the Dubai Tennis Championships in her sights.

“Svetlana Kuznetsova is a regular visitor to Dubai, and it is always a pleasure to welcome back old friends,” said Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of tournament organisers Dubai Duty Free. “She is a Grand Slam champion and her continuing success means that she is certain to once again be a very strong challenger for the title. We wish her well.”

The Dubai Tennis Championships, now in its 15th year, is owned and organised by Dubai Duty Free and takes place under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

Play begins at the Dubai Tennis Stadium on 19th February with the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour event, and continues on 26th February when Spain’s Rafael Nadal begins his title defence alongside three-time former champion Roger Federer.

For further information: John Rynehart, Promoseven Sports Marketing,
(T) +9714 3210008; (M) +971 50 55 96795; john.rynehart@promoseven.com