Copyright © 2015. No duplication is permitted without permission from Bob Larson Tennis.

Rafael Nadal has his eye on a fast start to 2016 with a third trophy at the Abu Dhabi New Year’s exhibition at the top of his post-Christmas tennis wish list. The 29-year-old Spaniard is hoping to pick up the rhythm the gained over the second half of the season just concluded and charge into 2016 once against as a grand slam contender.

“Coming to Abu Dhabi for the Mubadala World Tennis Championship is always special, it is the perfect preparation for me to get ready for a new season,” he said in the run-up to the exho in the Gulf. “I feel in great shape so it should be incredible experience for me, for the other players and of course for the fans coming out to support us.”

Others in the field have their own ideas, with rival including Stan Wawrinka keen to show put Nadal back in his box. Headliner Nadal has a bye to start the well-paid play date and will face the winner form supporting acts David Ferrer and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga.

“It’s a very important springboard for what’s to come in the season ahead,” Nadal said of the hit-and-giggle outing. “The facilities are top-notch and it’s a place I enjoy coming to, and with the strong competition lined up, I’ll be trying to set myself up for a strong campaign. Hopefully I can be successful and lift that trophy for the third time.”

Copyright © 2015. No duplication is permitted without permission from Bob Larson Tennis.