ADELAIDE: The South Australian city of Adelaide is set to be added by Tennis Australia in the ATP calendar from next year, as the city is likely organise the first-ever, week-long ATP and WTA combined tennis tournament.
The tournament, which is yet to gain the approval of the ATP and WTA, is expected to attract more than 120 of the world’s top singles and doubles players and offer a minimum of $2 million in total prize money.
The South Australian government has set aside $10 million to redevelop the Memorial Drive Centre Courts in the city where the event will be held.
Stage 1 of the project will include –
• A new woven fibreglass membrane fabric roof covering the existing stands and centre courts
• Four refurbished ITF standard Plexicushion match courts
• New fencing and lighting
• Improved access between the centre and outside courts during tournaments.
Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley said: “It’s important for us to continually improve on the great tennis offering we have in Australia to ensure there are more opportunities for players, more opportunities for fans to get to see them in their home towns and more global exposure for our sport.
“A major part of that vision is delivering more world-class tennis to capital cities around Australia which is what this tournament will help do. It is a vital piece in our vision to ultimately grow tennis and provide inspiration for future generations.”
Tennis South Australia CEO Steven Baldas added: “The redevelopment of Memorial Drive and the securing of a week-long WTA and ATP combined tournament is extremely exciting for tennis in South Australia.
“We have a long tennis history in Adelaide and the upgrades to the facilities announced today by the Premier and Minister Wingard will help us connect to a whole new generation of fans across the country and the globe by providing a new source of inspiration for young athletes to choose our sport.”
