ITF becomes World Tennis with a vision to provide ‘world of opportunities’
World Tennis has introduced a long-term vision focused on sustainable growth and greater accessibility 26 Jun 2026
The International Tennis Federation (ITF), the governing body of tennis since 1913, has officially rebranded as World Tennis, marking the beginning of a new era for the sport’s global development.
Alongside its new identity, World Tennis has introduced a long-term vision focused on sustainable growth and greater accessibility. Central to this strategy is a commitment to unlocking a “world of opportunities” for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds—both on and off the court.
In an open letter co-signed by President David Haggerty and Chief Executive Ross Hutchins, World Tennis pledged to reinvest at least 85 per cent of all income it generates each year for the next decade. This investment will support its network of 214 national tennis associations while fostering stronger collaboration across the sport.
World Tennis has outlined five key strategic priorities
1. Growing participation
Connect and align one of the largest networks of national associations across world sport to increase the number of recreational players, and enable more people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the proven health and social benefits of tennis.
2. Powering future stars
Deliver further enhancements to the World Tennis global player pathway – the main talent pipeline to the professional game – build new markets and provide more competitive opportunities all over the world.
3. Elevating official nations competitions
Strengthen the Davis Cup, Billie Jean King Cup and World Team Cup events; the pinnacle of national representation in tennis and pathway to the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
4. Ensuring a sport fit for the future
Lead the way ensuring tennis appeals to future audiences; innovating, connecting nations digitally, protecting integrity and trust, evolving governance and advancing player wellbeing.
5. Raising investment to grow the game
Securing new and stronger revenue streams along with value-driven long-term partnerships, and support reinvestment into tennis via national tennis associations worldwide.
As part of its vision, World Tennis has set a bold goal to expand global participation from 106 million players today to 140 million by 2035—an increase of more than 30 per cent.
David Haggerty, World Tennis President, said: “Today is an opportunity to redefine our role at
the heart of world tennis and pledge our commitment to ensuring a strong, sustainable future for
this brilliant sport. World Tennis reflects who we are, our global footprint and unique mandate.
“Our ambition is to grow the game in all corners of the world, hand-in-hand with 214 national
tennis associations and stakeholders across the tennis ecosystem. This includes increasing
participation, further developing the pathway for future stars to rise to the top, and providing more
access, regardless of age, gender or background.”
Ross Hutchins, World Tennis Chief Executive, said: “Tennis can unlock a world of opportunities
both on and off the court, no matter who or where you are. This is at the very heart of our role at
World Tennis, where our responsibilities are just as relevant to a world number one as to the child
who hasn’t yet picked up a racket.
“We begin this exciting new era with a clear vision for our amazing sport to thrive, support stronger
communities and help more people to enjoy healthier, happier and longer lives through tennis.
We will be bold in our actions to achieve global growth, create more opportunities for all and
deliver more investment for every level of our game. And we intend to achieve that future together
with all those passionate about tennis around the world.”
Listening to the global tennis community
Today, World Tennis has also launched the first-ever Global Tennis Fan Survey – an open invitation to fans and tennis communities in every country to share their views and ensure their voices are heard as the sport evolves in the years ahead.
Participants will be entered into a draw to win an all-expenses-paid trip for two to the 2026 Davis Cup Finals in Bologna, Italy.
