Fognini on playing in Abu Dhabi: ‘I believe we should be able to play in this region more often’

Fabio Fognini will play in the Diriyah Cup in Abu Dhabi which takes place between 12 and 14 December.

Fognini will make history as he becomes one of the first players to play in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Italian believes that playing in the region should be more of a feature due to the fact it would help to develop tennis in the country.

He sees the new tournament as good for the spectators and the country as a whole.

"The Middle East is a region that has a lot of hunger for tennis and I believe we should be able to play in this region more often. It would help tennis develop and it would give players more opportunities.

It is an honor to play in a new event. I am glad the organizers have chosen me to play in this new venue, which is apparently a very unique place. I think it is a great opportunity for the people of Saudi Arabia to be able to attend such world-class events live, and I believe it is good for the country as well.