CHENGDU, September 24, 2019 (Press Release)

The Chengdu Open time honoured tradition of bringing ATP stars to visit pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding continued this year as Felix Auger-Aliassime, Grigor Dimitrov and Cristian Garin were the first players to visit the cherished furballs this morning. 

The players enjoyed a relaxing stroll through the bamboo laden and forested base and caught glimpses of several large lounging on their tree platforms and chewing bamboo, prompting the trio to take numerous photos, videos and selfies. 

They had the good fortune of visiting the panda base as two baby pandas were on their morning run out and were seen cuddling with each other in the light rain. They also saw several red pandas, two of which were playfully fighting with each other and putting on a show for the visitors. 

An official guide was on hand to offer interesting facts about the heritage and habits of the lovable creatures.

“It was good, it was first time here and seeing pandas. I got to see different types as well, even the newborns. Overall, it’s a good day. Definitely a must-see if you’re in the region,” said Auger-Aliassime

“I’ve never seen red pandas that close. I’ve been here before but seeing them that close – it was pretty different, I’m not going to lie. I almost felt like a part of them. I wish we could actually go in and touch them, but I don’t know if it’s a great idea. It was a great way to start the day,” said Dimitrov, who had previously visited the Chengdu Panda Base in 2016. 

“It’s my first time seeing the pandas. It’s amazing, doesn’t look real. I’m very happy to be here and hear the crazy story of these animals. It’s very beautiful here,” said Garin.