Tommy Haas named tournament director of BNP Paribas Open

Tommy Haas has been named Tournament Director of the BNP Paribas Open. BNP Paribas Open Chief Operating Officer Steve Birdwell made the announcement Friday morning.

A former World No. 2, Haas has won 15 ATP World Tour titles in his career, advanced to multiple Grand Slam semifinals, including the Australian Open (1999, 2002, 2007) and Wimbledon (2009), and earned a silver medal at the 2000 Summer Olympics, officials said in the release.

The German posted a 25-13 record at Indian Wells, reaching back-to-back quarterfinals in 2007 and 2008.

“I’m thrilled to join the BNP Paribas Open as its new Tournament Director and look forward to working with one of the finest sporting events in the world,” said Haas. “There is a reason that the BNP Paribas Open has been voted Tournament of the Year by both tours for consecutive years, as the tournament and venue continue to provide a world-class experience for players, fans and sponsors. I look forward to joining the experienced Indian Wells staff, building upon the foundation they have created, and working to take the event to even greater heights.”

Tournament officials said Hass’ appointment as Tournament Director is pending approval by both Tours.

“As the BNP Paribas Open continues to grow and evolve in today’s tennis landscape, we see a clear need for a Tournament Director who will engage with players, sponsors and fans in a deep and meaningful way, and we believe that Tommy is well-positioned to achieve these goals,” Birdwell said. “Tommy is well-regarded by his peers on both tours and we believe that adding him to our existing veteran team will allow the tournament to flourish in the years to come.”

The BNP Paribas Open is the largest WTA and ATP World Tour combined two-week event in the world. It’s held in Indian Wells in March.