The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open has confirmed Canadian breakout star Victoria Mboko for its 2026 edition, as the tournament continues to cement its reputation as one of the most important early-season stages for the next generation of elite women’s tennis.
Just 19 years old, Mboko has been one of the most compelling stories on the WTA Tour in 2025. Beginning the season ranked outside the world’s top 300, the Canadian surged into the Top 20 after a breakthrough year that included title victories on home soil at the National Bank Open in Montreal and the Prudential Hong Kong Open. Her Montreal triumph marked just the third time a Canadian woman has lifted the national trophy since the Open Era began in 1968.
Mboko will make her tournament debut when the WTA 500 event returns to the International Tennis Centre at Zayed Sports City from 31 January to 7 February 2026, joining a growing field that blends established champions with emerging global talent.
“Breaking into the Top 20 has been an incredible journey, and I’m really excited to be making my debut in Abu Dhabi,” Mboko said. “I’ve heard amazing things about the tournament, the facilities and the fans, and I’m looking forward to testing myself against such a strong field at the start of the season.”
The 2026 edition will also welcome back defending champion Belinda Bencic, who returns as she targets a third Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open title. The Olympic gold medallist remains unbeaten at the tournament, having claimed the trophy in 2023 and 2025, with her 2024 absence due to maternity leave. Her return follows an impressive comeback season on tour.
Momentum continues to build around the entry list, with strong interest from a new wave of international stars including Leylah Fernandez, Clara Tauson and Paula Badosa. Rising Filipina talent Alexandra Eala has already been confirmed, underlining the event’s role as a proving ground for future champions.
“The Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open has become a platform where fans can see both established champions and future stars up close,” said Nigel Gupta, Tournament Director at MARI. “Victoria Mboko’s rise this season has been extraordinary, and her debut adds another layer of excitement to an already compelling field.”
Organised by MARI in partnership with Mubadala and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open has quickly established itself as one of the WTA Tour’s standout early-season events, pairing world-class competition with a strong focus on youth, community engagement and fan experience.
Further player announcements for the 2026 Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open will be revealed in the new year.
