Chris Kermode extends stay as ATP chief

10 March 2016 10:23

Chris Kermode has extended his contract as head of the ATP until the end of 2019.

The Londoner was appointed as executive chairman and president for a three-year term in January 2014 and is widely seen to have done a very good job.

Kermode, formerly tournament director at Queen's and the man behind the O2's hosting of the ATP World Tour Finals, has overseen two years of significant growth for the men's tour.

Last year, 4.5million fans attended tour events and more than one billion watched on television.

Kermode said: "I've taken great pleasure in leading the ATP since 2014, and I'm delighted to continue in my role as executive chairman and president.

"I'd like to thank the board of directors for its vote of confidence and support as we look to continue to maximise growth opportunities in the years ahead.

"Just as importantly, I look forward to working with the other governing bodies of tennis to continue to protect the integrity of our sport."

Significant challenges remain, not least repairing the reputation of tennis after a damaging start to 2016.

Kermode took the lead in the sport's response to match-fixing allegations that made headlines around the world just before the start of the Australian Open.

The governing bodies of tennis came together to commission an independent review of integrity in the sport, with Kermode called before Parliament to answer questions on the issue.

Kermode has spoken of an improved relationship with the other governing bodies while he has also moved to try to address the vast disparity between riches at the top and bottom of the game.

Low prize money in the lower tiers is widely believed to be a major factor in players being tempted to engage in match-fixing.

Minimum levels of prize money on the second-tier Challenger Tour, which is run by the ATP, are set to reach US dollars 50,000 by 2017.

Roger Federer praised Kermode, saying: "Chris has done an excellent job and shown great leadership since heading up the ATP. The tour is in great shape and I'm pleased to see that he will serve a second term."

Source: PA