Briton Chris Kermode is the new head of men's professional tennis
after being appointed executive chairman and president of the ATP.
Kermode, 48, was tournament director of the ATP World Tour Finals and the Aegon Championships at Queen's Club.
Backed by Andy Murray, he was the unanimous choice of the ATP board.
Who is Chris Kermode?
Born: 13 January, 1965Lives: London
Playing career: On the ATP Tour between 1985-1988
Highest world ranking of 742 in 1986
Post-playing: Worked as a tennis coach before going on to work in the music and film industries
Returned to tennis and has ran Queen's since 2007 and the ATP World Tour Finals since 2008
"It's a huge honour to lead the
ATP in what is unquestionably one of the most exciting periods in the
history of men's professional tennis," he said.
"I look forward to getting started in my new role and
to working very hard together with ATP staff, players, tournaments and
partners as we look to harness the full potential of our great sport in
years to come."
Kermode starts his three-year term at the helm of the ATP, which is responsible for organising top-level men's tennis, on 1 January.
Previous chairman Brad Drewett died in May, aged 54, after battling motor neurone disease.
"I've known and worked with Chris for many years and he gets on well with the players," said Wimbledon champion Murray, 26.
"He's done a great job with Queen's and the World Tour Finals and I look forward to working with him in his new role."
Seventeen-time Grand Slam winner Roger Federer, who is also the president of the ATP Player Council, said he was "delighted" to welcome Kermode into his new role on behalf of the players.
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