New Zealand Davis Cup captain Artem Sitak said the team were preparing thoroughly for the challenge.
“Bosnia & Herzegovina have a strong team, so we expect a high standard of tennis across both days.
“Our players understand what is required at this level and we will approach the tie with lots of good preparation and a clear focus on the task,” Sitak said.
Tennis NZ chief executive Julie Paterson said hosting a World Group I tie in Whangārei reflected the continued commitment to growing the sport in the regions.
“Bringing Davis Cup tennis to Whangārei is an important opportunity to showcase the sport at an elite level.
“The Northland community is passionate about the game at both grassroots and professional level, so we’re pleased to see this tie staged in Northland,” Paterson said.
The fixture is a big moment for Whangārei District Council, which sees the value the event brings to the community.
“We’re thrilled to welcome world-class tennis to Whangārei,” council community services group general manager Victoria Harwood said.
“This event is an incredible opportunity to showcase Whangārei as an international host city, attract visitors and inspire our young sportspeople.
“Our community can also look forward to activities that connect and engage locals, including school visits and a ball-kid programme.
“McKay Stadium will be transformed into a premier international tennis venue for the occasion, featuring tiered seating and a portable indoor court, with matches streamed to audiences around the world.”
Tennis Northland general manager Brittany White echoed these sentiments.
“We’re excited to bring the Davis Cup to Whangārei. It’s a huge opportunity for tennis in Northland, inspiring more people to get involved and helping grow the sport across the region,” she said.
In addition to Tennis Northland, Sport Northland is providing significant support for the event through its management of McKay Stadium.
Bringing Davis Cup tennis to Whangārei for the first time aligns well with objectives around connected partnerships with sporting codes and diversified use of venues.
The New Zealand team will be named closer to the event and will feature players competing across the ATP Tour, the World Tennis Tour and US collegiate programmes.
The two-day format will feature two singles rubbers on day one, followed by doubles and reverse singles on day two.
General admission tickets and courtside corporate hospitality tables will be on sale soon. More information is available at tennis.kiwi/daviscup
