We are thrilled to announce that Hany El Khafief, Tournament Director of the prestigious Six Kings Slam in Riyadh, has joined the top management of the Legends Team Cup.
Hany (pictured above with tennis legend Juan Carlos Ferrero) brings over three decades of invaluable experience in the tennis world, having held key roles in premier tournaments, including the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships.
The Six Kings Slam was a groundbreaking tournament in Saudi Arabia that brought together some of the most elite players in tennis, including Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, Daniil Medvedev, and Holger Rune. The event showcased thrilling matches, culminating in a spectacular final between Alcaraz and Sinner. Saudi Arabia set a new benchmark in the sport by awarding Jannik Sinner an impressive $6 million in prize money as the event’s winner. This superevent highlighted Hany’s expertise in managing large-scale competitions with precision, luxury, and world-class standards.
Hany’s extensive experience and his passion for creating world-class experiences both on and off the court make him a perfect addition to the Legends Team Cup. ‘I am delighted to join the Legends Team Cup and contribute to developing this exciting concept,’ said Hany. ‘It’s a unique opportunity to bring together tennis’s biggest stars in a new, dynamic format, and I look forward to shaping the future of this prestigious competition.’
Q&A with Hany El Khafief
What made you accept the role as part of the top management and Head of Rules and Regulation Committee for the Legends Team Cup?
“I was drawn to the opportunity to be part of a pioneering team shaping a new and exciting tennis concept. This role allows me to contribute not only to developing the rules and ensuring fair play but also to the broader strategic vision of the Legends Team Cup. It’s a unique chance to redefine the sport by bringing together tennis’s biggest legends in a dynamic and innovative format.”
How will your experience with events like Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships and Six Kings Slam benefit the Legends Team Cup?
“My background in managing high-profile tournaments has given me valuable insights into creating exceptional experiences while upholding the highest standards of competition. The Six Kings Slam, in particular, taught me the importance of merging luxury with competitive integrity, working closely with top players and their agents to create unforgettable events.”
What do you see as the biggest opportunity with the Legends Team Cup?
“The chance to redefine tennis with a team-based format that adds a fresh dimension to the sport. This format not only changes the dynamics on the court but also enhances the fan experience by introducing a sense of camaraderie and strategy.”
What improvements in tennis rules or competition formats would you like to see, and how can the Legends Team Cup lead the way?
“I’d like to see innovations that make the game more engaging for fans while maintaining fairness and integrity. The Legends Team Cup will be a platform for testing new ideas that could modernize the sport.”
How is working with tennis legends in a team format different from traditional individual tournaments?
“It adds an exciting layer of camaraderie and strategy, making the matches more unpredictable and thrilling for the audience. Team events often amplify the atmosphere and keep the energy high throughout the competition.”
What excites you the most about the Legends Team Cup?
“The opportunity to bring a fresh and innovative concept to life while working with some of the greatest names in tennis. Spectators love team events because they create a longer-lasting buzz and deeper crowd engagement.”
How will you ensure a fair and exciting experience for both players and fans?
“By setting clear and consistent rules and being open to feedback from players to continuously refine the competition. A fair game is fundamental, but so is creating an exciting atmosphere.”
Which part of your career has best prepared you for this role?
“I am currently the longest-serving Referee in Asia and Africa, having passed my first ITF certification in 1993. This journey, combined with my involvement in major tournaments like the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships and the Six Kings Slam, has equipped me with a deep understanding of event logistics, player needs, and audience expectations.”
How do you envision the Legends Team Cup evolving over the next few years?
“I see it becoming a marquee event on the tennis calendar, known for its unique format and the star power it attracts. I’d love to take it to countries and areas that have never had the chance to see such a caliber of players live.”
What impact do you hope the Legends Team Cup will have on the world of tennis?
“I hope it inspires a new generation of players and fans by showcasing the sport in a way that celebrates its history while pushing boundaries for the future.”
