Post by : Badri Ariffin

Dubai is set to host a thrilling week of tennis as it announces the 28th edition of the Al Habtoor Tennis Challenge, scheduled for December 1 to 7 at the Habtoor Grande Resort. With 80 competitors, including several ranked in the top 100, this year's event promises a week filled with fierce competition.

Daria Snigur from Ukraine, who claimed the title in 2021 and was the runner-up in 2019, is the sole past champion participating this year. Leading the charge is Julia Grabher of Austria, ranked No.92, who arrives after a successful season that saw her clinch her second WTA 125 title in Brazil last month, marking her return to the top 100 after two years.

Trailing closely is Latvia's Darja Semenistaja, currently positioned at No.94, who made her Grand Slam debut this year at the US Open and surged into the top 100 following her victory at the Les Franqueses del Valles W100 tournament. Dalma Galfi of Hungary, ranked No.96, is another notable competitor, returning after winning consecutive titles at the Oeiras Ladies Open and Catalonia Open.

Completing the top five players are Russia’s Anastasia Zakharova at No.101 and Austria’s Sinja Kraus at No.105, both eager to convert their consistent performances into a strong showing in Dubai.

All eyes will be on Snigur, who demonstrated solid performances in 2024, particularly at Wimbledon and Nottingham. She also progressed through the Australian Open, showcasing her confidence ahead of returning to Dubai.

The tournament has a rich history of engaging high-profile athletes, with former champions including names like Sorana Cirstea, Ana Bogdan, and Sania Mirza, reflecting its prestige over nearly 30 years.

Qualifying rounds kick off on November 30, with the main draw starting December 1, signaling the onset of yet another exciting chapter for one of Dubai's premier tennis events.

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