Dubai defending champion Caroline Wozniacki expressed her delight after she and former No.1 Ana Ivanovic were named the new global brand ambassadors for Dubai Duty Free on Monday at the Aviation Club.

The talented Dane is a regular in the emirate where she spent her off-season training last December and also visited to cheer on her boyfriend, renowned golfer Rory McIlroy, at the Dubai Desert Classic a fortnight ago.

“Dubai has a special place in my heart and it feels great to return this year as defending champion of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships,” said Wozniacki at the announcement. “Being ambassador for Dubai Duty Free is a great honour and it gives me the opportunity to help promote one of my favourite destinations.”

The Dubai Duty Free Player Ambassador Program is an integral element of the recently renewed partnership between Dubai Duty Free – the world’s leading airport retailer – and the WTA, who will remain partners for an additional three years through 2014.

“I am really flattered that Dubai Duty Free asked to become its brand ambassador,” said Serbian beauty queen Ivanovic. “It is a great company that has also been extremely supportive of women’s tennis. I always get excited about travelling to Dubai as it is one of the most exciting cities in the world.”

As brand ambassadors, Wozniacki and Ivanovic with star in the “Dubai Duty Free Full of Surprises Travel Show” – a unique short form-travel series which will be aired on TV and online – and conduct appearances at sporting events sponsored by Dubai Duty Free.