Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships 2008

I managed to get tickets for Mom and I to the first 3 days of both the women's and men's event. Unfortunately, the quarters, semis and finals were sold out within an hour and I was not on the ball. ;)

In the end, it was a blessing in disguise. As 6 days of watching tennis was enough and with S. Williams and Sharapova dropping out last minute, Henin and Federer losing in the first round, we were able to take the savings and splurge with a relaxing morning at the Madinat with manicures and pedicures.

We enjoyed the tennis we saw.


There were still lots of big names - Amelie Mauresmo.

Justine Henin's only match at this years tournament.

Sania Mirza from India drew big crowds - with the large Indian community, she was a local favorite.


Jelena Jankovic beat Mirza in the first round.

This years winner - Elena Dementieva.

The stadium wasn't very big, so we got great seats every day.

Nadal played doubles with Feliciano Lopez, who made it to the finals in the singles.

Toni Nadal, Nadal's coach, was sitting right in front of us.

Roger Federer in his one and only match this year in Dubai.

Federer lost to Andy Murray.

Mom's favorite, Rafael Nadal.

Mom being the groupy - getting up close for a photo of Nadal.

Roddick in his first match. He went on to win the tournament.

Mom showing off her manicure and pedicure on our last day.

We were at the Barclays Dubai Tennis Championships 2008.