Abu Dhabi: Swiss star Belinda Bencic has become Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open champion for the second time after coming from behind to defeat Ashlyn Krueger in today’s final, capping a comeback story, while Jelena Ostapenko/Ellen Perez clinched the doubles title following a win over Shuai Zhang/Kristina Mladenovic.
According to Emirates News Agency, the third edition of the WTA 500 event concluded in front of a sold-out crowd at the International Tennis Centre, Zayed Sports City, after eight days of tennis and off-court entertainment. Both finalists achieved victories to secure their place in the finals, with Bencic overturning a one-set deficit to eliminate reigning champion Elena Rybakina and Krueger defeating Linda Noskova.
In the first set, Krueger broke her opponent with the score tied at 4-4 and took the lead. Bencic responded strongly in the second set, overpowering Krueger, who was playing in her first WTA 500 final. In the third set, Bencic quickly took a 3-0 lead, firmly controlling the contest. Krueger managed to pull a game back, but Bencic secured a 4-6, 6-1, 6-1 victory, claiming her second Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open title.
Bencic celebrated on-court with her young daughter, Bella, before collecting her trophy from a presentation party including Homaid Al Shimmari, Deputy Group CEO at Mubadala Investment Company, and Aref Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, among others.
Earlier, Ostapenko/Perez won the doubles final against Zhang/Mladenovic in 60 minutes, cruising to a 6-2, 6-1 victory. The duo reached the final without dropping a set, dominating their opponents in the match.
Homaid Al Shimmari expressed congratulations to the winners, emphasizing the tournament’s role in inspiring the next generation and enhancing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a sporting destination. Aref Al Awani highlighted the tournament’s success and its role in supporting tennis development in the UAE.
Additionally, the Road to Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open initiative concluded with winners crowned in various age categories. The event, sanctioned by the UAE Tennis Federation, aims to provide a pathway for aspiring players in the UAE.
The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open Schools Program engaged over 25,000 children in the capital, introducing them to tennis through assemblies, art competitions, and tennis sessions. The Mubadala Tennis Village offered food, activities, and music for fans, with performances by Dan Moores and Chelsey Duo.
The event was a success, showcasing world-class tennis and local community engagement.