Shanghai Rolex Masters serves up top tennis talent to an eager fan base

Q: Industry insiders say tennis culture has gradually grown in the country with an increasing number of tennis events held in China, would you agree?

A: This is certainly an accurate assessment. Currently there are three major ATP men's events, eight ATP Challenger events and eight WTA women's events in mainland China. This is tremendous growth fueled by the public's appreciation of the sport and the corporate and local government sectors investing in the sport of tennis. We are in a unique and enviable position in this market place.

Q: How do see the current tennis market in China?

A: The current tennis market in China is very vibrant. As an example, the Shanghai Rolex Masters leads the world in major corporate partnerships. In our market research, tennis ranks No 1 as an inspirational sport for the public. Our ticket sales have an annual growth rate of between 15 to 30 percent. Our television broadcast hours have increased by 200 percent since 2000. This is thanks in part to great role models such as Li Na, Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

Q: In your view, what is the major difference between tennis fans in China and those in other countries?

A: There is very little doubt in my mind that the Chinese tennis fans are some of the most passionate, vocal and loyal in the world of tennis!

Q: What has Juss done to help promote the spread of tennis culture across the country?

A: Juss Events has been in the professional tennis business in China since 1998 (then called Xinxin Sports). We were the first Chinese State-owned company to own an ATP franchise. We started WTA tennis in China in 2000. We were the first tournament to give Li Na a wild card into a main draw WTA event and we have started five Tennis Masters Cups and six Masters Series events. Our partnership with our sponsor, ANZ, brings grassroots tennis to thousands of kids every year. We are proud of our achievements, but also intend to do much more in the future. Our hope is that through our tournaments and commitment, we will see a future Chinese male ATP champion.

Q: What are your future plans in terms of organizing tennis events?

A: Our future plan is to become a bigger, perhaps a 10-day tournament. This would offer a larger draw size and the highest prize money for a Masters event. We strive to offer the Chinese and Asian tennis fans an annual event that is equal to any Grand Slam tournament.