Israel will host the Tel Aviv Watergen Open on Nov. 5-11, in which top-ranked tennis superstars from around the world will compete for a $1 million prize pool.
Last year’s event witnessed a showdown, with Novak Djokovic, the reigning Grand Slam champion, defeating Marin Cilic.
Due to high demand at last year’s tournament, organizers are anticipating a larger crowd this year, with plans to expand the main court’s seating capacity to accommodate about 4,500 spectators.
The tournament is sponsored by Watergen, led by entrepreneur and philanthropist Michael Mirilashvili, who serves as the president of both the tournament and Watergen.
“Last year’s Tel Aviv Watergen Open left me with a profound sense of achievement and joy,” said Mirilashvili.
“It not only brought international tennis to our shores but also
showcased the warm hospitality, breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture of Israel. Personally, the true success of last year’s tournament lies in the international tennis experience we delivered, offering enjoyment and delight to all who attended,” he added.
“In the current year, we are determined to make the tournament even more successful and establish it as an annual tradition.”
His company, Watergen, produces mineral-enriched drinking water from the air, benefiting over 90 countries and significantly reducing plastic consumption while contributing to environmental conservation.
Tel Aviv Watergen Open 2023 will provide air-to-water drinking solutions for all tournament participants and the wider audience.
Other key supporters include Expo Tel Aviv, the Israel Tennis Association, the Israeli Culture and Sports Ministry, businessman and philanthropist Silvan Adams and the Comtec Group.
Said Adams, “Hosting such prominent international sports and cultural events enables us to showcase the beauty of Israel to millions of viewers worldwide, strengthening our tourism industry.”
Culture and Sports Minister Miki Zohar said, “The State of Israel is proud to host the Watergen Tennis Tournament, and we are delighted to welcome the global tennis elite here. Hosting this tournament is crucial for promoting the sport in Israel, and I thank Dr. Michael Mirilashvili and all our partners, including Sylvan Adams, the Israel Tennis Association and Comtec Group for their contributions.”
Avi Peretz, chairman of the Israel Tennis Association, said, “We are delighted and excited that the tournament is becoming a tradition. Hosting international competitions such as the Davis Cup, where we are currently hosting Japan, and an ATP [Association of Tennis Professionals] tournament is a significant contribution to the development and promotion of the sport.
“I want to thank Dr. Michael Mirilashvili, Silvan Adams, and Minister Miki Zohar for their contributions to the event and to the tennis community,” he said.