Aces, set and match points are signaled by a moving graphic display which circles the entire arena. "I have been to the Masters Series events in the States and grand slams but for setting this beats them all," said Sloss.

"It's a fun arena to play in," Murray told gathered reporters after news of the two-year extension emerged. "I think it works very well just now."

His rivalry with Djokovic promises to light up arenas around the world over the next few years.

"Novak and Andy are two amazingly gifted athletes, and their talent and potential is limitless," said Drewett.

"However, the game has never been more competitive and if you can get to the top, staying there is more difficult than ever.".

The chief of the men's game will be hoping that Federer continues his late career heroics, beaten by Djokovic in a classic 2012 final, and that Nadal recovers from his injury problems for 2013.

It's that ever shifting battle for supremacy, echoed in the women's game, which appears to drive interest and keep tennis immune from the problems which have afflicted other sports in tough times.