Game, set, match: exploring the transformative impact of the ATP finals on the city of turin and the italian tennis movement

Purpose The research aims to explore the transformational potential of sporting events and in particular, it considers the ATP Finals in Turin. It analyses how the event has increased the economic, social and cultural value of the city, while at the same time reshaping its identity – which has traditionally been linked to football and the car industry – into an international sports hub. In addition, the research discusses the effects of the event on how tennis is viewed in Italy. Design/methodology/approach Qualitative research was undertaken, involving semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders including event organisers, government officials and community leaders. The interviews provided an understanding of the effect of the ATP Finals on urban regeneration, business boost and community engagement. The findings were put into the context of current research on sports events, urban regeneration and sports social responsibility. Findings The study demonstrates how the ATP Finals have been instrumental in Turin’s urban renewal and economic resurgence, yielding long-term dividends by way of improved infrastructure and heightened international exposure. Socially, the event promoted local pride and identity, spurred tennis uptake at the grassroots level and improved the sport’s popularity outside its traditional elite base. Stakeholder collaboration was central to the optimisation of the effects, with strategic planning and community-focused initiatives being emphasised. Originality/value This study adds to the discourse of sporting events’ social impacts bringing in both theoretical and practical insights. In a case study analysis of the ATP Finals, the study demonstrates the potential for sports events to be used as instruments for urban and social development. The outcomes of the research give stakeholders practical suggestions for maximising future events’ legacy and impact while still being concerned with issues of sustainability, inclusiveness and stakeholder co-operation.