There have been countless game-changing moments in the 50-year history of the ATP. It is only fitting they are being celebrated at the prestigious Nitto ATP Finals, where the best players in the world will compete from 13-20 November.
ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi, ATP CEO Massimo Calvelli, Mayor of Turin Stefano Lo Russo and Councillor for Sport of the city of Turin Domenico Carretta visited a special ATP 50 installation Friday to commemorate 50 game-changing moments.
“The game of tennis has a rich heritage and has never stood still. It’s a privilege to reflect on ATP’s 50-year journey, the people that made it possible and the diversity of our global game," Gaudenzi said. "It serves as an incredible foundation for the road ahead. Sharing this moment with our fans in Turin, through the ATP 50 installation, is a special way to lead into this year's Nitto ATP Finals.”
The installation is located next to the Piazza San Carlo, open for fans to learn more about everything from tennis’ first rockstar, Bjorn Borg, to Pete Sampras’ six consecutive year-end No. 1 finishes and the history of the Nitto ATP Finals.
Both tennis fans and locals walking past took the time to look at the life-size displays, which feature images from the 50 moments and descriptive text in English and Italian to explain them.
Fans Davide Vaschetto and Simone Burdese enjoy the ATP 50 exhibition.
Two 19-year-old Italian tennis fans, Simone Burdese and Davide Vaschetto, were in the area to catch a look at their favourite players during Nitto ATP Finals Media Day. They were excited to learn more about the ATP’s history just a short walk away.
“It’s interesting to know the history of tennis, of every tournament. I’m proud that this event is here in Turin,” Vaschetto said. “This is the country where I live. It’s beautiful that people can know a little bit more about tennis.”
The Nitto ATP Finals will begin on Sunday at the Pala Alpitour, where Rafael Nadal will face Taylor Fritz and Casper Ruud will clash against Felix Auger-Aliassime. In doubles, Marcelo Arevalo and Jean-Julien Rojer play Lloyd Glasspool and Harri Heliovaara, with Rajeev Ram and Joe Salisbury set to take on Marcel Granollers and Horacio Zeballos.