Chris Kermode has been a part of the sport for 30 years and now heads the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) as revenue and viewership marks notable growth. In an interview with the BBC, Kermode said, “I’m fortunate to be taking over the ATP at such an exciting time in the game,” and that, “People have been saying this is a golden era in men’s professional tennis for several years now.”

Chris’ ambition for the sport’s reach continues to grow. Despite viewership, coverage, and revenue increases for both Masters 1000 and 500 level matches at the ATP World Tour, Kermode sees more work to be done.

The Challenger Tour is one event on which his sights have been set. With a current prize of $40,000, Kermode wants to see that sum increased to $50,000 with the help of notable sponsors, including Corona, FedEx, Emirates, Ricoh, Moet & Chandon, Enel and Rolex.

The digital realm has been instrumental in the sport’s growth as well, due largely to both the ability to cover events online and reach a wider audience through social media.

Expanding into new markets is another avenue Kermode will be diving into, with interest in the Far East as well as South America, where Rio will be hosting an ATP World Tour 500 event for the first time ever this year.

Keep your eye on the ball for more exciting developments from the world of Men’s Tennis.