SA Tennis Open 2010 for Montecasino
30 October 2009
Following the success of this year's tournament, won by world number eight Jo-Wilfried Tsonga of France, Montecasino in Johannesburg will once again play host to the South African Tennis Open in 2010.
The SA Tennis Open is a 250 series event on the ATP World Tour, which means the winner will take away 250 world ranking points.
The R3.5-million event will run from 1 to 7 February, with the qualifying tournament taking place on 30-31 January. As was the case this year, the main singles draw will comprise 32 singles players, with 16 teams competing for the doubles title.
Tsonga claimed the singles title earlier this year, finishing on top of a field that included David Ferrer of Spain and Marcos Baghdatis of Cyprus. Jeremy Chardy, also of France, was the losing finalist.
'Thumbs-up'
"It is wonderful that Montecasino will be our partner again in next year's SA Open," South Africa Tennis Association chief executive Ian Smith said in a statement this week, adding that feedback from the players indicated a strong "thumbs-up" for the venue.
"With all the shops, restaurants and cinemas around them, the players loved the venue and that will help us attract a strong field yet again."
Montecasino general manager Steve Howell said a group of hard courts would be laid at the venue, with matches being staged on two courts with seating capacity for 3 500 spectators. Tickets are expected to go on sale soon.
"We all know that 2010 is the most significant year ever in the history of South African sport, and I believe a first-class SA Open will be a great prelude to the soccer World Cup," Smith said.
Tsogo Sun's Montecasino is one the most popular leisure and shopping destinations in Gauteng province, attracting over eight-million visitors every year.
It was designed to replicate an old-world Tuscan hill-top village, and brings the spirit of Tuscany to life with its artistically rendered decor.
Located in the north of Johannesburg, Montecasino is also easily accessible from Pretoria.
SAinfo reporter
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