Khalifa International Complex gets ready for Qatar Classic

Doha: With less than three weeks to go for the 2017 Qatar Classic, the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex has already begun to wear a new look to welcome the PSA World Series tournament.

The Qatar Tennis, Squash and Badminton Federation (QTSBF), under the dynamic leadership of Nasser Al Khelaifi, is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring a carnival atmosphere from October 29 to November 3.

Necessary branding materials are already being put in place and the courts are getting the required facelifts in readiness for the tournament.

A record $165,000 prize money will be up for grabs as the world’s best players, led by World No.1 Gregory Gaultier, defending champion Karim Abdel Gawad, two-time winner Mohamed El Shorbagy and 2009 champion Nick Matthew battle it out for the second World Series title of the 2017/18 season.

Abdullah Al Tamimi will lead Qatar’s challenge.

The Doha tournament is one of the richest in the series, with the winner scheduled to get $24, 225 in cash prize while the runner-up gets $14,820.

Being held under a new management (QTSBF), the 2017 Qatar Classic is witnessing a new phase with major improvements in all aspects of the tournament, including the unveiling of a new tournament logo, for the great benefits of players, officials and fans alike.

The 2017 Qatar Classic is also scheduled to get the best media coverage ever in its 17-year history with a remarkable increase in the number of international media delegates, representing some of the world most renowned outfits, accredited for the event.

“It is a great honour to once again showcase to the world Qatar’s great reputation as an organiser of world-class events. The 2017 Qatar Classic is planned to be the best ever and we are working round the clock to ensure that no stone is left unturned in achieving this,” QTSBF Secretary-General and Tournament Director Tariq Zeinal said.

“Our commitment in ensuring players, fans, officials and every other person associated with this tournament have the best of time in Qatar remains unflinching and everything is almost set for a fun-filled week of squash in Doha,” he added.

The qualifying stages of the Qatar Classic will be on October 27 and 28, where six Qatari players, including the highly-talented Syed Azlan Amjad will be in action.