Bencic and Raducanu set for rematch in Abu Dhabi

Olympic champion Belinda Bencic has been announced as US Open winner Emma Raducanu’s opponent at the Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi.

The Swiss former world No 4 Bencic produced some stunning form to win gold in the singles and silver in the doubles at the Tokyo Olympics.

Her showdown at the Zayed Sports City on December 16 will also be a rematch of their US Open quarter-final, which the British qualifier won before going on to win the first major of her career.

“Since we introduced the women’s match in 2017, we have welcomed some of the biggest names to compete in Abu Dhabi,” said John Lickrish, chief executive of organisers Flash Entertainment.

“With that legacy in place, the goal for the Mubadala World Tennis Championship is to keep evolving to ensure we bring our knowledgeable fans the best, unrivalled experiences. This is not one to miss.”

Bencic, 24, said she is looking forward to travelling to play in a new country, and is eager to show her defeat against Raducanu at the US Open was a one-off.

“When I was offered the opportunity to come and explore Abu Dhabi and all the championship has to offer, I was very excited and happy to do it,” said the Swiss star.

“It’s great to travel to new places. I’m looking forward to coming, to immerse myself in the many cultures there and interact with all the fans.

“Emma and I played a great match in New York and I am looking forward to another great battle, this time in Abu Dhabi.”

Tickets are available from ticketmaster.ae and Virgin Megastores across the UAE.