ERSA PRO STRINGER ISSUE 6-2018 prostringer6-18 web | Page 16

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INDUSTRY NEWS
Historic Davis Cup reforms
approved at AGM
Gerard Pique and ITF President David Haggerty
The ITF AGM today voted in favour of the ITF and Kosmos’ transformational reforms to Davis Cup by BNP Pari-
bas, which will secure the long-term status of the competition.
From 2019, the competition will see 18 nations and the world’s best players compete in a week long season
finale to be crowned Davis Cup champions. The first edition of the new event will be held in Madrid or Lille
from 18-24 November, with the inaugural host city to be announced in the coming weeks.
ITF President David Haggerty said: “I am delighted that the nations have today voted to secure the long-term
status of Davis Cup by BNP Paribas. By voting in favour of these reforms, we will be able to work with Kosmos
to realise the huge potential of the competition and elevate it to new standards. This new event will create a
true festival of tennis and entertainment which will be more attractive to players, to fans, to sponsors and to
broadcasters.
"In addition, the new revenues for nations that the event will generate will have a transformative effect on
the development of tennis in all nations. Our mission is to ensure that this historic decision will benefit the
next generation of players for decades to come.
"I would like to thank the nations for taking this historic decision and the ITF Board of Directors for their com-
mitment and support. I would also like to thank Kosmos for their passion and partnership. I have no doubt
that by working together we will ensure a brighter future for tennis all around the world.”
Gerard Pique, President and Founder of Kosmos, said: "Today is a historic day and we are convinced that the
agreement ratified by the nations certainly guarantees the future of the Davis Cup and the development of
tennis at all levels.
"I would like to thank ITF President David Haggerty, the ITF Board of Directors and the entire team of ITF pro-
fessionals for their work with Kosmos over the past few months and welcome a new stage in which we will
continue to evolve together. I would also like to congratulate all those who, with their votes, have embraced
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ERSA PRO STRINGER // ISSUE 6-2018