Tennis: Indian Aces win inaugural International Premier Tennis League title

Serbian player Novak Djokovic of the UAE Royals returns the ball to France's Gael Monfils of the Indian Aces during their International Premier Tennis League match at the Hamdan Sports Complex in Dubai on Dec 13, 2014. -- PHOTO: AFP
Serbian player Novak Djokovic of the UAE Royals returns the ball to France's Gael Monfils of the Indian Aces during their International Premier Tennis League match at the Hamdan Sports Complex in Dubai on Dec 13, 2014. -- PHOTO: AFP
The Indian Aces team celebrates after winning the International Premier Tennis League in Dubai on Dec 13, 2014. -- PHOTO: REUTERS

DUBAI - World No. 1 Novak Djokovic signed off in style at the International Premier Tennis League (IPTL) by thrashing Indian Aces' Gael Monfils 6-0, but it was not enough for his UAE Royals to win the inaugural exhibition event last Saturday.

The Indian Aces, who had the likes of Roger Federer, Pete Sampras and Ana Ivanovic turning out at different stages of the four-leg mixed tournament, lifted the trophy, a life-size tennis racket with ball and decorated with diamonds and gemstones.

Ivanovic said: "We are thrilled to be champions. It was a lot of fun. It was a great experience for me."

The Royals were second, Manila Mavericks third and Singapore Slammers last.

Each tie featured five one-setters, with games won, rather than match results, deciding the winner.

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