A new chapter begins. Luca Santilli will be leaving his position as executive director of tennis development within the International Tennis Federation (ITF) in May. He has held this position for ten years and has worked for the ITF since 1999 that holds the top spot. " I'm still young at heart and in good physical shape, but it's time to move on to the next stage. " explains the Italian on the site of the instance.
« It's been a dream. Tennis was my passion before it became my job, and I am very proud of the journey I have accomplished in this sport. I'm leaving the ITF with wonderful memories and friends for life. all over the world. I met so many amazing people and worked on so many exceptional programs, all while rubbing shoulders with a whole generation of champions. It wasn't just any job. " he continued, praising the power of tennis for changing lives ».
He shares an anecdote that reveals the impact of his role: in 2000, with the local authorities, he participated in to gather 1.000 children in the main square of Tirana (Albania) so they can play tennis there. At the time, not much was happening in Albania: there were only six old tennis courts in the center of Tirana. But over the decades, it has become clear how much tennis has developed in the country. In so many countries that previously lacked any infrastructure, there is now a clear path from the grassroots to the highest level. "Santilli points out.
