All players competing on the ITF pro circuit, which comprises men’s future tournaments, satellite circuits, and women’s circuit tournaments from $10,000 to $75,000 level, will be allocated a unique number, known as the International Player Identification Number, or IPIN .
The first system to take advantage of the IPIN will be a new online service which will allow all players to manage their ITF pro circuit entries via a specially-designed website developed by the ITF.
From 1 January 2005, all male and female players who compete in ITF pro circuit tournaments must posses an IPIN before the entry deadline of the first event they wish to play in.
Since the 4 October 2004, players have been able to obtain their IPIN online at www.itftennis.com/ipin.
The ITF’s online service is due to be launched in April 2005 and will allow all players competing in ITF pro circuit tournaments to enter and withdraw via the internet in addition to giving them access to important updates and other information relating to the circuit.
The ITF will be the sole entry authority for all men’s and women’s ITF pro circuit tournaments from 1 January 2005, including women’s tournaments in Europe and the USA for the first time.
Tennis Europe and the United States Tennis Association will undertake a new role as the first point of contact for players and tournament directors in their region/country and will be responsible for initial coordination of the associated calendar.
“Nearly 10,000 players compete on the ITF pro circuit each year, and over 760 ITF pro circuit tournaments are held annually”, said Jackie Nesbitt, head of professional circuits.
“The ITF needs an efficient, automated computer system in place in order to manage the ever-growing tournament administration and to be able to identify players quickly and accurately within that system.”
