Tennis on Channel 9 I guess there’s a first time for everything.
The Nine Network, in conjunction with Tennis Australia, will broadcast the global launch of the highly charged new tennis format FAST4 starring the world’s greatest ever tennis player, Roger Federer.
Federer will join Lleyton Hewitt for the exciting Sydney event on Monday, January 12, with Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal set to shake it up in Melbourne on Wednesday, January 14, 2015.
The FAST4 format has been successfully piloted at tennis clubs across the country and is designed to offer players a fast alternative to traditional tennis. There are no advantage scores, lets are played, tie-breakers apply at three games all, and the first to four games wins the set. FAST4 will appeal to tennis fans and players of all ages and abilities, and is perfect for those keen to fit a fun and competitive tennis match into a busy lifestyle.
At the global launch in Sydney, Federer will showcase the new format against Australian champion Lleyton Hewitt. In Melbourne, Nadal will mix it up by taking on a trio of opponents including former world No.7 Fernando Verdasco, Mark Philippoussis and his compatriot Omar Jasika, the reigning US Open Junior champion.
Nine Network’s Head of Sport, Steve Crawley, said: “Big names, fast games. At Nine’s Wide World of Sports we can’t wait to showcase this stunning new tennis format.”
Tennis Australia CEO Craig Tiley said the FASTA4 format is an exciting development for tennis, and is delighted that Federer, the seven-time Wimbledon champion, will be involved in the world premiere in Sydney.
“There is no doubt that Roger Federer is one the greatest tennis players we have ever seen. It is a major coup for us to work with him on the global launch of FAST4 in this world-first opportunity for Sydney,” Mr Tiley said.
“We see FAST4 as a game-changer that will revolutionise tennis, particularly at club and social levels. Time today is precious and FAST4 is perfect for any player who wants to fit tennis into a busy lifestyle.
“While Roger and Lleyton will play FAST4 within a traditional match format, Rafa is going to really mix it up. He is one of the most exciting and dynamic sportsmen in the world, and I can’t wait to see him take on not just one but three opponents at this special event.
“Rafa is also looking forward to premiering tennis at the recently completed Margaret Court Arena in Melbourne, which now fittingly has what we believe to be the world’s fastest retractable roof.”
FAST4 Matches
Monday, January 12, 2015
Qantas Credit Union Arena, Sydney
Marquee match: Roger Federer vs Lleyton Hewitt
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Margaret Court Arena, Melbourne
Rafael Nadal will face a formidable trio, playing one set against both Mark Philippoussis and reigning US Open Junior champion Omar Jasika, and the best of five sets against former world No.7 Fernando Verdasco
