Random Notes: Behind the Success of the IPTL in Manila

Popular tennis stars Andy Murray and Maria Sharapova enjoyed their stay in Manila during the first 3-day leg of the 2014 International Premier Tennis League held at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, and Filipino viewers are loving it. (Photo courtesy of The Guardian)

When I've learned and heard of the International Premier Tennis League having its first leg in Manila, I was surprised to think that something like this would happen. But when it was held on the last days of November, I did not expect a huge turnout that made the first leg a success. Even the founder of the league, former Grand Slam tennis star Mahesh Bhupathi, was very impressed with the turnout.


Maybe the main reason why the Manila leg of the International Premier Tennis League was become many sports enthusiasts, more particularly tennis fans, want to see their favorite tennis stars in person and in action. In fact, some of the world's best male and female tennis players are playing for the cities staging as venues of the IPTL. Fortunately, it was a very delightful sight for many Filipinos to see first hand their favorites such as Andy Murray, Roger Federer, Serena Williams, and Maria Sharapova, among others.

Although there are some who criticize the event, I can say that I like what is happening, especially the five-minute shootout in case of a tie and the fact that teams can only have one substitution and one timeout. It may be different from the rules of ATP and WTA, it is considered to be a well-deserved treat for many Filipino viewers knowing that hopefully they will be back. And that is a fact.

Oh, and one more thing, I want to thank ABS-CBN Sports for bringing the world's greatest tennis players to Philippine television, especially in an event like this. Be well!!