Post by : Bianca Suleiman
Abu Dhabi gears up for another exhilarating week of premier tennis as defending champion Belinda Bencic and emerging Filipino prodigy Alexandra Eala confirm their entries in the 2026 Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open. Scheduled to be hosted at the International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City, the WTA 500 tournament will be held from January 31 to February 7.
Ranked World No. 11, Bencic returns after securing victories in both 2023 and 2025. Her 2025 victory was especially emotional, sharing the moment with her young daughter, Bella, amidst a cheering crowd. Renowned for her precise strokes, tactical awareness, and versatility on the court, the Swiss athlete remains undefeated at the Abu Dhabi Open—making her a key player to observe.
“I am thrilled to return as the defending champion,” said Bencic. “The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open is incredibly special to me. The electrifying atmosphere and unwavering support from fans make it even more unforgettable.”
Joining Bencic, the 20-year-old Alexandra Eala is back after making her debut in 2024. This year, she has made notable strides in the WTA rankings, breaking into the Top 50 thanks to her string of commendable performances. A former US Open girls’ singles champion and a product of the Rafa Nadal Academy, Eala is now one of Asia’s brightest stars and the highest-ranked Filipino player in history.
“My experience in Abu Dhabi in 2024 was truly memorable,” Eala shared. “The encouragement from fans was inspiring, and I can't wait to return stronger to compete against the best.”
The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open has rapidly become a top-tier event in the region, attracting elite players and significant crowds. Following a record-setting 2025 edition, the upcoming tournament in 2026 promises a week of thrilling matches, family-friendly entertainment, and vibrant community participation. Expect gripping tennis as Bencic defends her title while Eala continues her ascent on the international stage.
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