Hong Kong tennis event called off after sponsor setback
The annual Hong Kong Tennis Classic has been postponed due to a lack of sponsorship, organisers of the event have confirmed.
The exhibition event, which was due to be staged in January 2012 at the start of the tennis season, has featured top stars such as Roger Federer, John McEnroe, Maria Sharapova, Venus Williams and Caroline Wozniaki in previous years. The 35-year-old tournament, though, has failed to secure a title sponsor.
Hong Kong Tennis Patrons' Association President Ian Wade said in a statement "we have been forced to postpone the event in January owing to a lack of sponsorship.
"In today's financial environment, finding a sponsor has been difficult, and this has proved to be the case."
According to AFP, Co-Tournament Director Terry Catton added "I hope this is a temporary glitch and that a sponsor will step forward to assume the reins."
Organisers did not disclose how much the sponsorship would have cost.
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