LONDON, November 6, 2021 (ATP Press Release)
The ATP and Italian Tennis Federation (FIT) have announced new rules at the 2021 Intesa Sanpaolo Next Gen ATP Finals, taking place from 9-13 November in Milan, enhancing the presentation of the ATP’s showcase 21-and-under event.The tournament, which spotlights the most exciting up-and-coming talent on the ATP Tour each season in a lightning-quick gameplay format, continues to operate at the forefront of innovation in tennis. The event serves as a valuable testing ground for rule and format changes, as well as leveraging technology to deliver a unique fan experience. This year’s tournament will feature format innovations first pioneered in previous editions:
- First-to-4, Best-of-5 Set Matches
- No-Ad Scoring
- Free Fan Movement
- Live Electronic Line Calling
- Shot Clock
- Video Review
- Towel Racks
In addition, new rules and enhancements for 2021 include:
- Shorter Warmups: Down from 4 minutes to 1. Less down time, more action.
- Courtside Coaching: Coaching opened up from the side-lines. No more headsets.
- Net Cams: Your front-row seat, right at the heart of the action.
- Limited Medical Time-Outs: One per player per match.
- Timed Bathroom Breaks: Max 3 minutes (+ up to 2 for change of attire). Clock’s ticking.
Ross Hutchins, Tournament Director of the Intesa Sanpaolo Next Gen ATP Finals, said: “This event has always been about pushing the boundaries and trialling new ideas. Ultimately, we want to continue improving the experience for our fans. It has become an incredible platform to spotlight the next generation of superstars coming up in the game, with several of the concepts we’ve tested going on to be adopted on the Tour. We’re thrilled to continue that journey of innovation in Milan.”Elsewhere, the top eight players of the Next Gen ATP E-Series 2021, in collaboration with Mkers, have emerged following six stages of intense online competition. Witness the series’ first-ever champion being crowned as the finalists face off in a live event on centre court at the Intesa Sanpaolo Next Gen ATP Finals, on Saturday 13 November.To see the full line-up and get your tickets for the 2021 Intesa Sanpaolo Next Gen ATP Finals, click here.
