Early Life and Career
Chris Kermode was born on January 13, 1965, in Lancashire, England. He grew up with a passion for tennis and quickly rose through the ranks as a junior player. Kermode had a successful career as a professional tennis player in the 1980s and 1990s, reaching a career-high ranking of World No. 173 in singles and World No. 103 in doubles.
Transition to Administration
After retiring from professional tennis, Chris Kermode transitioned to a career in tennis administration. In 2008, he was appointed as the tournament director of the ATP World Tour Finals, one of the most prestigious events in men’s tennis. His success in this role led to his appointment as the Executive Chairman and President of the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) in 2014.
Impact on the ATP
During his tenure as ATP President, Chris Kermode implemented several key initiatives to grow and promote men’s tennis around the world. He oversaw the expansion of the ATP Tour calendar, introduced new tournaments in Asia and South America, and negotiated lucrative broadcast deals to increase the sport’s global reach.
Challenges Faced
Despite his successes, Chris Kermode faced challenges during his time as ATP President. In 2019, there was a push from some players to remove him from his position, citing concerns about the governance and direction of the organization. After a contentious vote by the ATP Board of Directors, Kermode’s contract was not renewed, leading to his departure from the role.
Legacy in Tennis
Despite his controversial exit from the ATP, Chris Kermode left a lasting impact on the sport of tennis. His efforts to expand the global reach of men’s tennis and increase prize money for players have been widely praised. Kermode’s leadership also helped to elevate the ATP World Tour Finals into one of the premier events on the tennis calendar.
Current Endeavors
Since leaving his role at the ATP, Chris Kermode has remained active in the tennis world. He has continued to work as a consultant for various tennis events and organizations, using his expertise and experience to help grow the sport at all levels. Kermode has also been involved in charitable initiatives to support young players and promote diversity in tennis.
Awards and Honors
Throughout his career, Chris Kermode has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to tennis. In 2014, he was named “Sport Industry Leader of the Year” by SportBusiness International for his work at the ATP. Kermode has also been recognized for his efforts to promote equality and diversity within the sport.
Personal Life
Outside of tennis, Chris Kermode is known for his love of music and art. He is an avid collector of contemporary art and enjoys attending concerts and music festivals in his free time. Kermode is also a devoted family man, balancing his professional commitments with spending time with his wife and children.
Philanthropic Work
In addition to his work in tennis administration, Chris Kermode is actively involved in philanthropic efforts to support young athletes and underserved communities. He has partnered with several organizations to provide resources and mentorship to aspiring tennis players, helping them pursue their dreams on and off the court.
Future Plans
As he looks towards the future, Chris Kermode remains committed to making a positive impact on the world of tennis. He continues to explore new opportunities to grow the sport globally and create more inclusive pathways for players from diverse backgrounds. Kermode’s passion for tennis and dedication to its growth are sure to shape his future endeavors in profound ways.
