Tennis Auckland and Tennis New Zealand today announced the ASB Classic will return in January 2023, after a two year hiatus due to COVID-19 enforced cancellations. The anticipated dates for the event are 2-14 January 2023.
The events also have a new Tournament Director, with Nicolas Lamperin assuming the role, effective immediately. Nicolas brings a wealth of experience, having worked alongside some of the biggest names in tennis for many years and having previously served as Associate Tournament Director of the Croatia Open ATP 250 event. Over the course of his career at IMG, Lagardère and Starwing Sports, he has represented players including Grand Slam Champions Marion Bartoli and Stan Wawrinka and Top 10 players Richard Gasquet and Gaël Monfils.
Lamperin is excited by the opportunity to take the reigns of one of the most revered ATP & WTA 250 level events. “The tournaments in Auckland are loved by players, and amongst the best attended 250 events on the calendar. I’m excited to get to work and continue the legacy of what is one of the highlights of the summer down under.” said Lamperin.
The event will be delivered co-jointly by ATP licence holder Tennis Auckland and WTA licence holder Tennis New Zealand in an update to the management structure of previous editions. The organisations have been working hard in putting together plans for the event and are excited with the level of support shown by event stakeholders. “It’s exciting to finally be able to announce the event, after all the work that has gone in since the start of the year. We’re incredibly grateful for the continued support of so many of our sponsors, suppliers and supporters.” said Tennis NZ Chief Executive Julie Paterson.”
Fans can expect the same great experience as previous editions, as some of the best players in the world head to Auckland. “The ASB Classic is one of the events of the year, more than just a sports event, it’s a celebration of summer and as always the event experience off the court will be world-class, just as the action on-court will be.” said Tennis Auckland CEO Rohan West. Lamperin has received strong interest from several high profile players already, and expects to make his first player announcement soon. “From the conversations I’ve had so far there is lots of excitement that Auckland is back on the calendar and plenty of interest from players in competing. We look forward to letting fans know soon, who will be joining us in January.” he said.
Tickets for the event will be on sale from August, with the first player announcements expected around this time.
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Photo Credit - STUFF