Tennis legends entertain crowds at Expo 2020 Dubai’s Tennis Week

DUBAI: There were super-speedy rallies, plenty of on-court jokes and jibes with the audience, as tennis icons John McEnroe, Richard Krajicek, Greg Rusedski and Mark Philippoussis showed off their racket skills at the Men’s Doubles Exhibition Game during Expo 2020 Dubai’s Tennis Week at Expo Sports Arena.

McEnroe played up to his reputation for on-court temper tantrums, Philippoussis chatted to the children in the audience, Rusedski exaggerated his moves, and Krajicek mock-smashed his racket into the ground. Rusedski even shouted “You cannot be serious!” at McEnroe, referring to the American’s (in the)famous phrase at a Wimbledon match more than 40 years ago.

At one point, a ball girl replaced Rusedski for some of the fun and games; and at a later stage, Philippoussis nudged McEnroe as he joined his opponent’s side of the court.

In a game showcasing how it is really participation that counts, Rusedski and Philippoussis beat McEnroe and Krajicek in a super tiebreaker 4-6, 6-4, 10-7. Ahmed Al Khatib, Chief Development and Delivery Officer, Expo 2020 Dubai presented trophies to all of the players.

Entry to the matches is open to Expo 2020 Dubai visitors and will be staged at the Expo Sports Arena, a multi-purpose venue that hosts an exciting array of sports events and fitness sessions and is located next to Festival Garden, just behind Jubilee Park.

Source: Expo 2020 Dubai