As the former president of WTA Asia Pacific, and tournament director of WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai, Mr. Peter Johnson looks forward to this upcoming event, which will be held this November in Zhuhai, China. Delta Bridges spoke with Mr. Johston in an exclusive interview about how this tournament is being planned on a global scale, what role the Asia Pacific plays in the WTA tours, and what expectations he has on this international event.
DELTA BRIDGES: What role has WTA been playing in developing and promoting women’s tennis and professional tennis?
PETER JOHNSON: WTA plays a vital role in promoting the development of the world’s professional tennis. Until four years ago there had been only two WTA events held in China, but today WTA tours are hosted widely here. Meanwhile, new projects have been launched in South America and some other countries, aiming to educate and encourage young athletes to participate in professional tennis tournaments.
DB: What do you think of the position of WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai in regards to its global strategy?
PJ: WTA is one of the largest women’s sports associations. Launching this tournament not only helps promote professional tennis, but brings unprecedented experience to tennis enthusiasts all around the world.
DB: As the former president of WTA Asia Pacific and tournament director of WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai, how do you look upon the development of women’s tennis in Asia? As the game will be held in Zhuhai, what do you think it will bring to the city?
PJ: I am very excited about the development of WTA in the Asia Pacific region.This area has grown to be a major hub for tennis sport. A growing number of new tennis projects are being developed, with the ever-increasing media exposure and fan base. WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai will boost the international popularity of the host city, and demonstrate that Zhuhai has the ability to host major international events. This is a great opportunity to showcase the beautiful city of Zhuhai. Having spent major efforts on the development of Hengqin Island, which is within close proximity to Hong Kong and Macau, Zhuhai is taking advantage of this tournament opportunity to advertise itself as one of the most livable cities in China and a great tourism destination with unique geographic location and pleasant weather all year long.
DB: Women’s tennis has long been a popular sport in the western world. In Asian countries such as China it just began growing, with Li Na, Zheng Jie and Peng Shuai making breakthroughs in the world of professional tennis. What do you think of the development of women’s tennis in China? What expectation do you carry for the youngsters and what advice can you provide?
PJ: In my view, the breakthroughs made by the Chinese female players have set a goal for young players to pursue, and have boosted the development of new sports facilities in cities like Zhuhai, for example the newly-built Hengqin International Tennis Center. It will increase the popularity of tennis sport in Zhuhai, and provide a venue for tennis players to chase their champion dream.
DB: What makes WTA Elite Trophy tournament special, in terms of its competition system?
PJ: Only single’s players ranked 9 to 19 will qualify for Zhuhai so we can expect to see very tight matches from the first day of the tournament. Round robin matches will give each player the opportunity to get used to the surface and adjust her form then the semi-final and the final matches will become even more competitive.
DB: What do you expect for WTA Elite Trophy Zhuhai?
PJ: I look forward to showing this international event to the world. The city of Zhuhai will be put under spotlight during the tournament and be recognized by the WTA for organizing international tennis event. I am expecting a perfect tournament.
