Former tennis player Gaudenzi to replace Chris Kermode, whose contract was not renewed in March after a long running dispute with Djokovic.
Novak Djokovic has welcomed the appointment of Andrea Gaudenzi as the new chairman of the ATP.
The 46-year-old Italian, who won three Tour-level titles and reached a career-high ranking of 18th before retiring in 2003, will start the job in January, replacing Chris Kermode.
Kermode’s contract was not renewed in March after a long-running dispute with Djokovic, the president of the ATP’s player council. Djokovic had been trying to increase players’ influence over how the Tour is run.
In an ATP statement, Djokovic said: “On behalf of the players, I’d like to welcome Andrea as the next Chairman of the ATP.
“As a former player, he has walked in our shoes, and has also become a successful entrepreneur following his playing career.
“He has all the qualities to lead the Tour and we look forward to working together for the benefit of the players and the sport more generally.”
Gaudenzi says it is “a true honor” to step up to the chairman’s position after a previous role on the board of the Tour’s broadcasting unit. The ATP says the board voted unanimously for Gaudenzi.
“The ATP has played a central part in my life in so many ways, and to be given this opportunity to serve as ATP Chairman is a true honour,” said Gaudenzi.
“I look forward to overseeing the future direction of the Tour and building on the sport’s global success and popularity at what is unquestionably one of the most exciting times in the history of men’s professional tennis.
“I’m very thankful for this opportunity and can’t wait to get started in January.”
