(ATR) Today is the deadline for candidates to declare their eligibility for the International Tennis Federation's board and presidential elections.
Earlier this month, an ITF spokesperson told ATR that Francesco Ricci Bitti would not stand for re-election as president. The 73-year-old Italian has led the ITF since 1999.
The leading contenders for the ITF presidency include David Haggerty, former United States Tennis Association president; Anil Khanna, president of the All India Tennis Association; Juan Margets, current ITF executive vice president; and Rene Stammbach, president of the Swiss tennis federation.
Ricci Bitti is also president of the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations. He would continue as ASOIF president until the end of 2016 if he relinquishes his leadership of ITF.
The ITF will elect a new president in September.
Mary Carillo to Receive ITF Honor
U.S. broadcaster and former professional tennis player Mary Carillo will receive the Philippe Chatrier Award at the 2015 ITF World Champions Dinner on June 2.
The award, named after former ITF president Philippe Chatrier, was introduced in 1996.
Former recipients include Billie Jean King, John McEnroe, Martina Navratilova, Todd Woodbridge, and Mark Woodforde.
In a statement, Ricci Bitti said, "Despite her many achievements on a wider stage, Mary Carillo remains a fearless and passionate commentator on tennis and her unique voice has done much to champion our sport and the other causes that are close to her heart.
"Her contributions to tennis over more than three decades make her a worthy recipient of the ITF's highest honor."
In response, Carillo said, "I was fortunate enough to know Philippe and have long admired and embraced his vision, spirit and love for our sport, so I am honored beyond measure to receive this magnificent award from the ITF."
Carillo, 58, captured her first world title at the 1977 French Open in mixed doubles. At the peak of her career in professional tennis, Carillo was number 33 in the world rankings.
In 1980, Carillo began a career as a tennis analyst for the USA Network. Since then, she has covered the sport for numerous networks including ESPN and NBC.
Carillo has covered 12 summer and winter Olympics, including nine for NBC, and also won a Sports Emmy for documentaries on Billie Jean King and women in sport.
From 2009-2014, Carillo served as chairwoman of the USTA Foundation.
Written byNicole Bennett
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