November 16, 2008, Shanghai – After eight days of non-stop tennis action, the Tennis Masters Cup 2008 came to an end tonight at Shanghai Qizhong Forest Sports City Tennis Center. Novak Djokovic defied the odds and claimed his first Masters Cup championship title with a dominating 2-0 victory over Nikolay Davydenko. The crowned champion proudly hoisted the esteemed trophy at the awards ceremony, and received a brand-new silver R 500 presented by Mr. Klaus Maier, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (China) Ltd. – the principal sponsor of the Tennis Masters Cup 2008.
As the official cars and victory prize of the tournament, Mercedes-Benz R-Class is renowned as the world-class model in its segment. Since its introduction into the China market in 2005, R-Class' stylish, yet non exaggerated design concept, has been well-received by customers. In 2008, R-Class maintained an inspiring double-figure growth rate year-on-year in the first three quarters, with September marking the highest sales record in a single month. R-Class' spacious interior and first-class driving performance allowed Mercedes-Benz to create a new sports tourer segment, which once again confirms the automaker's vision and creativity as a trendsetter in the automotive industry. R-Class also adopts the striking AMG body styling, which further enhances its visual expression to its dynamic and sporty character.
The vehicle also won the favor of the world champion. At the completion of tonight's tournament, Djokovic had a face-to-face communication with fans in the Mercedes-Benz VIP area. With excitement, he put a miniature model of his prize – Mercedes-Benz R-Class – and a signed photo of him on the wall, which displays all the prizes of the Tennis Master Cup in previous years.
