The ASB Classic will return to Auckland in January of 2023 after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19 enforced cancellations.
Nicolas Lamperin has been confirmed as the new tournament director with immediate effect, having previously served as associate tournament director of the Croatia Open.
He has also represented grand slam champions, Marion Bartoli and Stan Wawrinka, as well as former top 10 players, Richard Gasqueet and Gaël Monfils.
Lamperin is excited by the opportunity to take the reins of one of the most revered events.
"The tournaments in Auckland are loved by players and amongst the best attended 250 events on the calendar. I’m excited to get to work and continue the legacy of what is one of the highlights of the summer down under," Lamperin said.
ASB Chief Executive Vittoria Shortt says ASB is thrilled to be part of bringing the ASB Classic back to Auckland, and not just for the fans.
"We’re excited to see this important event back this summer, giving Kiwis something special to look forward to. The ASB Classic also brings an important and much needed boost to local businesses as fans descend on Auckland. We’ve supported the ASB Classic for more than 24 years and we’re proud to sign on again as a major sponsor until at least 2025," she said.
Lamperin has already received strong interest from several high-profile players already, and expects to make his first player announcement soon.
"From the conversations I’ve had so far, there is lots of excitement that Auckland is back on the calendar and plenty of interest from players in competing. We look forward to letting fans know soon who will be joining us in January," he said.
