Anyone for elite tennis?
New Zealand will play a prestigious international tennis fixture in Palmerston North in September.
Tennis New Zealand announced its next Davis Cup tie will be a World Group 2 clash against Luxembourg indoors at CET Arena on September 14 and 15.
In the Davis Cup, players compete for their countries, rather than individually as professionals. It began in 1900 and is touted as the premier international team event in men's tennis.
It’s believed to be the first time a Davis Cup tie would be hosted in Palmerston North.
Recent Davis Cup ties in New Zealand have been in Christchurch, Invercargill and Auckland. The winner of September’s tie will re-enter Group 1 playoffs next year.
The Davis Cup is played in two windows, February and September, so holding the September fixtures indoors was the best way to avoid weather interruptions.
A court that Tennis New Zealand has purchased is being brought over from Melbourne. The hardwood surface will be painted black with white lines and will sit on top of the existing arena floor.
Tennis New Zealand commercial and marketing manager Gareth Archer said the organisation was excited to bring the Davis Cup to Palmerston North.
“Watching elite tennis up close is an amazing experience and we encourage everyone to get along to Fly Palmy Arena to pack the house out and support our Kiwi team.
“We’re pulling out all the stops to make this an incredible event and plan to have lots of activities in the week leading in.”
With the Davis Cup being an international competition, Archer said the courtside atmosphere could be electric.
“Davis Cup is all about passion and representing your country, crowds are encouraged to make lots of noise supporting the home team and this can make a big difference for the players on court in a close match.”
New Zealand’s squad will be drawn from players competing on the world tennis tour circuit. KP Pannu, ranked 553rd and Ajeet Rai, ranked 626th, are the top singles players.
The Luxembourg side has two players with similar rankings.
There will be two singles matches on the first day, then doubles and reverse singles on day two.
Archer said it was a great opportunity for the players to wear the silver fern and play in front of a home crowd.
Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith was pleased the Arena had been awarded the fixture.
“It is probably better known for its speedway, Super Rugby, basketball and netball tests. But to put tennis into the mix is fantastic and I hope the city gets right behind it.”
Tennis Manawatū chairman Vince Baylis said it was awesome to bring an international match to Palmerston North and hoped to see a good crowd create a good atmosphere.
The electronic scoreboard hanging from the rafters will be removed to ensure there’s enough clearance above the court and the venue’s transportable electronic screen will be brought in for the scoreboard and replays.
Tickets go on sale soon, starting from $10. Courtside hospitality tables would be available.
The event will also be broadcast live on Stuff.