MUMBAI: The national carrier of the state of Qatar, Qatar Airways, has teamed up with Coca-Cola International Premier Tennis League (IPTL) as the presenting sponsor for the inaugural edition of the event. In its capacity as the presenting sponsor, it will be undertaking a series of on-ground activations to engage with tennis fans across the globe.  

Founder of IPTL Mahesh Bhupathi said, “Qatar Airways’ legacy as a committed sponsor of global sports events is well known. We’re glad to partner with an award winning airline like them as presenting sponsor and look forward to enjoying a long and fruitful association during and after the IPTL season.”

The tennis league is the first of its kind initiative in tennis to encourage a competitive franchise based competition. The league will travel to the cities of Manila, Singapore, New Delhi and Dubai featuring current and former ATP and WTA players in its inaugural season from 28 November until 13 December 2014.

Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker said: “We are extremely excited about our partnership with the Coca-Cola International Premier Tennis League. At Qatar Airways, we have a long-standing history of associations with large-scale sporting events which allows us to connect with sporting fans and legendary sportsmen across the globe through our widespread global route network. Qatar Airways’ associations with this event will further promote the game among the increasing fan base of tennis enthusiasts across the world.”

Starting from the Philippines, the league will travel to Singapore and India before culminating in Dubai. In its inaugural season, the championship will feature players such as Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray, Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova and others playing for four tournament franchises – Manila Mavericks, DBS Singapore Slammers, Micromax Indian Aces and the UAE Royals, that have been sponsored by corporates and leading sports legends.