Helfant to Leave as ATP Chief at the End of 2011

The Association of Tennnis Professionals (ATP) announced yesterday, June 13, that its Executive Chairman and President Adam Helfant would not be continuing his position with the Tour beyond the completion of his three-year contract at the end of this year.

Helfant joined the governing body of men’s tennis in January 2009, overseeing impressive growth at the Tour during difficult economic times, including in the areas of sponsorship, television and digital.

He stated: “I recently informed the ATP’s Board of Directors that I have respectfully declined their offer to continue on. Since I joined the ATP I have felt an immense sense of responsibility to the sport, and the people who have devoted the better part of their lives to it, to leave things better than when I arrived. I am proud to say the Tour is stronger than ever –- in terms of on-court action and our business –- and is well positioned for the future.”

Helfant revealed that revenues at the ATP will have increased by around 65% under his control by the time he steps down, while the organisation’s net assets will have increased by more than 1,100% by the close of 2011.

He added: “I am proud of what we’ve accomplished. Yet, there comes a time when it makes sense to look to the future and consider other opportunities. For me, that time is now. I have enjoyed the challenges during my time at the ATP, and the position has been rewarding; but when my contract is up at the end of this year, it will be the right time for me to move on.”

According to the statement released by the body, the ATP will begin the search process for Helfant’s successor in the near future, to seek to replace a man credited with sealing major sponsorship deals with Corona Extra and FedEx.

Roger Federer, President of the ATP Player Council, said: “On behalf of the player council and all the players, I would like to thank Adam for his excellent leadership and contributions during his time at the ATP. We achieved a lot together and will be sorry to see him go at the end of the year. The sport is in great shape and we look forward to helping to identify a new leader for this important position.”

ATP Board Member Gavin Forbes added: “Adam has done a terrific job as President of the ATP and we are disappointed he will not be returning next year, but we respect his decision and wish him all the best. The Tour is in a fantastic position and well-placed to continue on the same exciting path.”