His smile, which he approaches in all circumstances, his all-British phlegm and his elegant and relaxed look make him a warm-hearted character. One of those beautiful people with whom you want to spend some time. Present in the Principality for more than twenty years, this native of London grew up in the Balearic Islands before working at the ATP in Monaco. Meeting with the new tournament director.
What is your background so far?
I was born in London but I lived my childhood in Majorca, before going to study in England. Not related to tennis. But in Mallorca there was an ATP 250 tournament every year, I worked there during my studies, and that’s how I first met the ATP people. They told me: the day you finish your studies, come and join us.
And that’s what happened ?
Yes, in 2001. First in London, then for a three-month training in the United States. Then, in December 2001, I arrived in Monaco at the ATP offices. I was initially in charge of press and public relations for the players. Then I worked in the sponsors department. I managed ATP partnerships at tournament level. And then, after other duties, I ended up as director of the European zone for the ATP Tour tournaments. That is to say take care of more than thirty tournaments.
What was it?
We manage all the relations with the tournaments, the dates, the prize money, the organization… So I had already been in contact with the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters for years, since Monaco is one of those tournaments that I am busy.
Were you already in the mood?
It’s true, and as I took care of the relations of the players with the press, there is an anecdote that I remember. It was in 2002. I accompanied Roger Federer for a signing session at the Star’s and Bar, and at the time he was not very well known. Fatality, that day, we find ourselves in the same place with Yannick Noah! No one came to see us, everyone went to see Noah! It’s a great life lesson. This shows that you have to let time pass to see the stars of this game born.
Is it true that we are at a turning point in the generations?
Exactly. We had three big stars for years, we will have a new generation coming, but we have to give them time to realize themselves.
Going back to the tournament, did you start as assistant manager?
In October 2020, I took over from Philippe Rialland, who had prepared everything for me. He accompanied me perfectly for three months, leaving everything in order after thirty-three years of presence. Then I worked alongside Zeljko Franulovic and then in July 2022 I became director.
How was this departure from the ATP to take over the management of the tournament?
It was an interesting opportunity for me, after twenty years at the ATP. Working here, and staying in Monaco, that also counted in relation to my personal life, since I have three children, teenagers today, who grew up here. My wife is French and we feel at home in Monaco. So it corresponded to my life course.
It was a logical continuation in a way?
Yes, because I was already very involved and this tournament is a very high level competition and represents excellence in tennis. And above all, it corresponded to my desire to give back to the Principality, as a leader, all that it has given me since my arrival more than twenty
years. I made my decision without regrets, in full agreement with the ATP.
What is the advice that you retain among the many that Zeljko had to give you?
It is to be very attentive to the players. Zeljko was very vigilant about that, so I kept that in mind: the essentials of the tournament are the players. Of course, there are fans, and without fans there is no sport; there are the indispensable partners; people in the organization; and then there are the players, because if they are not there, no tournament! You have to be correct and respectful with them in all circumstances.
Is David Massey comfortable in his new director suit?
I feel very comfortable in this new costume! I am very well surrounded, with the support of Mélanie-Antoine de Massy, who is very precious to me, and Chris Kermode, without forgetting the whole team around me who has a lot of experience. I don’t feel alone, that’s very important, and I also feel well prepared with the experience acquired at the ATP. It’s an exciting challenge!
