Share

Federer questions Italian Open organisers after ticket price hike

Rome - Swiss tennis star Roger Federer said he was left confused by the Italian Tennis Federation’s decision to double ticket prices after it was confirmed he would play in the tournament.

The 37-year-old was a late inclusion, with ticket prices immediately jumping from €60 to €132.

FIT president Angelo Binaghi offered an odd explanation when asked to defend the decision, saying: "We have doubled the price of tickets for Wednesday, the day Federer will play.

"We want to reward fans who had bought tickets before they knew Federer would play."

However, Federer found the explanation difficult to swallow.

"I heard some fans clearly were not happy about it. That's obviously disappointing to hear," Federer told the press on Tuesday.

"They made it (out) in a way like they rewarded the fans who bought tickets earlier, which is sort of strange, but okay.

"I just really hope it doesn't take away the fact I'm really happy to be here.

"There's going to be good crowds hopefully, good atmosphere. Personally I'm very happy to be here.

"I'm pumped up to play well. I mean, my excitement couldn't be bigger."

The 20-times Grand Slam champion faces Portugal's Joao Sousa on Wednesday.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1471 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2250 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE