The first season of the IPTL was a runaway hit, and now, Mahesh Bhupathi is back with even more star-power for the second edition of the tournament. The series is already underway and now the bandwagon lands in Delhi this weekend.
We sat down with the tournament’s founder and MD as he broke it down into five reasons that this season of the IPTL will be worth the wait for the fans.
1. Japan Warriors Added To The Roster
After succeeding with a four-team format in the opening edition of the tournament last year, the IPTL has added a fifth team - the Japan Warriors.
Japan is just a very important market in terms of tennis these days. Kei Nishikori has been amazingly successful, so we are very happy to have a Japanese team and more importantly, a Japanese team in the IPTL this season.
– Mahesh Bhupathi
2. Nadal to Finally Make IPTL Debut
The Spanish ace had signed on to play in the league last season, however, an injury had forced him to pull-out of the tournament.
No excuses this time as Rafael Nadal gets all set to make his IPTL debut for the defending champions, the Indian Aces, in December.
We were very upset that we missed him due to injury last season. But we are excited he is back, we are excited he is back. Looking forward to some great tennis in December.
– Mahesh Bhupathi
3. Nadal vs Federer in Delhi on December 12
Rafael Nadal playing for the Indian Aces however means that Roger Federer has moved onto another team, the UAE Royals.
But, for all sports fans - there is a treat in store! The Roger Federer- Rafael Nadal rivalry will now find a new venue - New Delhi.
Roger was drafted by the UAE Royals this season but we have a big match-up here when the Royals play the Aces. So well, the sports fans have a treat in store.
– Mahesh Bhupathi
4. Leander Paes On Board
Speaking of tennis rivalries, and Mahesh Bhupathi has pulled off another coup in his players’ roster this season.
India’s most popular and successful tennis star - Leander Paes, after giving the first season a miss, has been signed by the Japan Warriors in IPTL season 2.
We have Sania and Rohan back this season as well. Leander is in as well. I think this format will suit him. He loves playing with energy and full houses, it is going to be good for the fans.
– Mahesh Bhupathi
5. A Final Will Decide The Champion
Another new addition to the tournament this season will be a Final that will decide the Champion team. Unlike the points collected in the league format, it will be down to two finalists on the 20th of December.
Last year, it was a pure round-robin format. This year on the last day, on the 20th of December, the top two teams will play-off for the title in Singapore. I think that is going to be something everyone will be excited about.
– Mahesh Bhupathi
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