Peerless progress over the years
AS THE Qatar ExxonMobil Open celebrates its silver jubilee edition, it was time for the Qatar Tennis Federation (QTF) to assess how the tournament has progressed over the years.
German superstar Boris Becker won the inaugural edition in 1993, defeating Croatia’s Goran Ivanisevic 7-6 (7-4), 4-6, 7-5 to lift the golden falcon trophy.
Qatar ExxonMobil Open ’s Tournament Director Karim Alami shot to fame in 1994 when he stunned the then world No.1 Pete Sampras of the US in the opening round in Doha. Though he lost to eventual runner-up Paul Haarhuis of France in the second round of the tournament won by Sweden’s Stefan Edberg, Alami recalled his moment of glory with gusto.
“The match point against Sampras was pretty spectacular. I couldn’t breathe due to nerves. I’ll never forget the moment when I had the match point against one of the greatest players in the game, in front of a crowd that was behind me. It was an incredible feeling!” said Alami.
Much has changed since Alami’s giant-killing act in 1994.
The Khalifa International Stadium, which had an initial capacity of 4,500 seats, was upgraded to a 7,000 seater in 2008. That year also saw renovations to the set-up of the venue with the addition of new stands, VIP boxes, Lower, Middle and Upper sections, and VIP & Public Village and Food Courts.
Currently, the venue has a Centre Court, four side courts and 20 outside courts. In recent years, the venue has been transformed into more of an interactive and entertaining home for fans. The event also won the award as the best ATP World Tour 250 tournament in 2015.
“We’re happy to welcome the world once again to Doha,” Alami added.
