Photo: IOC/Greg Martin.
Thomas Bach will no longer have room to display all his awards. The honorary president of the IOC has received the Philippe Chatrier prize From World Tennis, the highest distinction it awards. This prize was created in 1996 and is awarded to individuals or organizations that have made an exceptional contribution to tennisJuan Antonio Samaranch had won it, as had Rod Laver and Martina Navratilova.
« Receiving this Philippe Chatrier Prize is for me a very moving momentcommented the former IOC president. Tennis has played a very important role throughout my life. As a passionate young tennis player following in my mother's footsteps, as a a great admirer of the tennis stars of my generation, as a partner of many renowned players when I was Director of Promotion at Adidas, as a long-time friend of Philippe Chatrier, and finally, as President of the IOC, by being able to to give this wonderful sport the place it deserves at the Olympic Games. »
World Tennis is delighted to announce Thomas Bach as this year's winner of the prestigious Philippe Chatrier Award.
— World Tennis (@worldtennis) July 4, 2026
Bach is being recognized with the global governing body's highest honor for his longstanding support and advocacy for the sport of tennis through the Olympic… pic.twitter.com/6Q4ybcGolY
World Tennis President David Haggerty paid tribute to him: During his twelve years at the helm of the IOC, Thomas recognized the importance of tennis within the Olympic Games and the special role our sport plays in inspiring people around the world. Beyond the Games, he demonstrated a genuine passion for tennis, regularly engaging with our athletes and remaining closely linked to this sport throughout his presidencyIt is entirely justified that Thomas receives this prize which bears the name of Philippe Chatrier. »
