Miami Names Former ATP Great As Tournament Director
12 January 2018 02:32
The Miami Open presented by Itau has a new tournament director, and he's a familiar face for tennis fans across the world. Ten-time ATP World Tour titlist and former World No. 4 James Blake has been named to the role and will focus on player relations, media, broadcast, as well as tournament improvements and innovations, the tournament stated in a release on Thursday.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the Miami Open team that has been putting on one of the best tennis events for more than 30 years,” said Blake. “As a player, I always loved playing in Miami and I am excited for the opportunity to take the tournament experience to a higher level for the players, sponsors and fans.”
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“James’s extensive knowledge of tennis from both a player and tournament perspective, along with his proven leadership skills, great reputation and strong relationships throughout the sport, make him the perfect choice to serve as tournament director of the Miami Open,” said Adam Barrett, Miami Open Executive Director. “He is going to make our team stronger and will be a great bridge for the players and fans.”
Blake was a leader on- and off-the-court during his 14-year professional career. In addition to his titles, the American served as Vice President of the ATP Player Council. The Miami Open presented by Itau, an ATP World Tour Masters 1000 tournament, is the latest tournament to hire a former ATP World Tour great as its tournament director. Former World No. 2 Tommy Haas serves in the same role for the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, an ATP World Tour Masters 1000 tournament. Spaniard Albert Costa, a 12-time ATP World Tour titlist, is the tournament director for the Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell.
This year’s Miami Open will be played at the Crandon Park Tennis Center on Key Biscayne from 19 March – 1 April. For more information, or to purchase tickets, go to miamiopen.comreadfullarticle
