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

The nexus between sport and social impact has emerged as a vibrant and changing practice and scholarship area since the reach of sporting clubs, events and athletes extends beyond the sporting arena (Nicoliello, 2025). Several authors have emphasised increasing awareness of sport as a means of advancing positive social change (Anagnostopoulos et al., 2022; Chiu et al., 2023), referring to modern developments in sports management, in which social responsibility and philanthropic initiatives are viewed as integral components rather than secondary parts of strategic development and operational implementation (Cury et al., 2023; Fatima and Elbanna, 2023). Sport has demonstrated an immense ability to significantly shape societal norms and values, particularly on pressing social matters as well as promoting diversity, equity and inclusion (Hwang and Henry, 2023). Moreover, the ability of sport events to leave enduring legacies for host cities and society introduces a further dimension of sophistication and possibility to the discussion of the social function of sports (Preuss, 2007).

Major events, including the Olympic Games, the FIFA World Cup, or prestigious competitions such as the ATP Finals in tennis, are frequently lauded for their capacity to effect significant change. They bring together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, such as government institutions, commercial sponsors, athletes and host communities, who synergistically collaborate to achieve common objectives (Yiapanas et al., 2022). Furthermore, their extensive coverage in the media and cultural prominence provide a special chance to generate economic, social and cultural value (Walzel et al., 2018). The attainment of such benefits is dependent on systematic planning, stakeholder involvement and deliberate effort to align the objectives of the event with the goals and interests of the host community (Fechner et al., 2023). This context is the background to the current study, which is concerned with the implications of the Turin ATP Finals, a major tennis event with important repercussions both for the sport itself and for the host city. The ATP Finals, which brings together the eight best men’s singles players and doubles teams in the world, is one of the most important events in professional tennis. The naming of Turin as the host city for the ATP Finals from 2021 to 2025 is a significant development for Italian tennis and for the city of Turin. Historically linked with football and the automotive sector, Turin’s staging of the ATP Finals is indicative of a desire to diversify its sporting and cultural offer and is part of a wider shift in aiming to be a destination for global events. The research investigates how the ATP Finals has generated value for Turin, both in quantitative and qualitative terms and how it has helped to transform the image of tennis in Italy, a nation where tennis has always played second fiddle to football.

The research is guided by the main question:

This question seeks to clarify the mechanisms by which events like the ATP Finals create economic, social and cultural benefits for host cities. Through this approach, the research seeks to offer an understanding of the broad influence of sport on urban development and city change (Davies, 2016). The Turin case is especially intriguing insofar as it is a point of convergence between global sporting achievement and local ambition. The implications of the event go beyond simple ticket receipts and television audience; they extend to the revitalisation of city centre, the stimulation of local businesses and the raising of community pride and identity.

One of the most important points of the research is that it concentrates on the sports event and social attitude relationship. Italian tennis has experienced a resurgence in recent years, fuelled by the achievements of players like Matteo Berrettini (2021 Wimbledon runner-up) and Jannik Sinner (2024 ATP Rankings number one, 2024 Australian Open, US Open and ATP Finals winner, 2025 Australian Open and Wimbledon winner) and the Italian men’s team (2023 and 2024 Davis Cup winners). The ATP Finals represents a significant platform to build on these advances and inspire a new generation of players and fans. For Turin, the event presents a chance to reassert its position on the global scene, capitalising on exposure and prestige affixed to hosting one of the sport’s premiere competitions. This dual narrative of localised change and national rebranding only works to highlight the richness and relevance of the ATP Finals as an interesting case study.

The approach in this research is qualitative and the main tool of data collection is semi-structured interviews. Consulting with key stakeholders such as event organisers, local authority officials, business owners and residents, the study aims to develop an extensive comprehension of the impacts of the ATP Finals. The findings will be placed in a broad theoretical and empirical framework, drawing on the dominant literature relating to sports events, urban development and sports management. The approach ensures that the results are grounded in real-world experiences and contribute to the academic debate on sport and social responsibility.

Following this introduction, the next chapter presents a systematic review of the literature with the major themes and gaps determined that inform the study and theoretical framework necessary in determining the impact of the event. The methodology chapter describes the qualitative design employed and discusses processes undertaken in undertaking and analysing the interviews. The present analysis of the ATP Finals is the main subject of the paper, delivering a detailed analysis of its economic, social and cultural impacts. The following discussion synthesises the results with those of previous literature, revealing lessons learned and potential avenues for future improvement. The conclusion then recapitulates the results of the study and outlines the implications for future research and practical application.

This study has the ATP Finals in Turin as its focus and aims to add to existing literature on the role of sporting events in social change, thereby highlighting how events can be used as a force for good while appreciating the complexities and challenges associated with such processes. Through this initiative, it is in alignment with the special issue goals, exploring the various ways in which sport might promote social responsibility, philanthropy and sustainable development. The research adds to the developing body of literature on sporting events and city regeneration with a relatively under investigated case of a recurring international competition staged by a medium-sized city. In contrast to studies tending to be concentrated on one-off mega-events staged by major world cities, the paper illuminates the ways in which the ATP Finals in Turin have been strategically used to achieve sustainable city regeneration, enhance stakeholder collaboration and reinterpret the city’s cultural identity through sport.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and philanthropy have become key elements in the sport industry, representing a platform to examine how organisations use their social and economic power to create positive changes. This chapter presents an in-depth review of the seminal literature and the current scholarly debate that places sports as a leading catalyst for social responsibility, highlighting their impact on communities, organisational identity and sustainability.

The integration of CSR in the field of sports management marks a shift in the key issues that dominate this industry. Historically, the attention of sports organisations has been on competitive excellence and financial outcomes; however, the second half of the 20th century saw an increased awareness of the public responsibilities undertaken by these organisations (Hammerschmidt et al., 2024). CSR is a vehicle for handling stakeholders, thus embedding moral ideas into organisational approaches, as argued by Walzel et al. (2018). Because of the significant outreach and high leverage, sports organisations enjoy a unique ability to implement CSR initiatives; they address a range of different audiences and have symbolic power that can be leveraged to advance values such as sustainability, inclusivity and health. This unique position allows sports organisations to serve as intermediaries between commercial interests and community welfare, thereby boosting their social legitimacy (Yiapanas et al., 2023).

Philanthropy is an added layer to CSR in terms of delivering tangible benefits to communities (Demetriou et al., 2023). Cury et al. (2023) argued that philanthropic activities in the field of sport are largely focused on pressing issues in society, such as education, health and social integration. Compared to CSR, with its strategic and long-term focus, philanthropy can entail disjointed efforts in addressing immediate needs. Combined, these initiatives complement the social impact of sports organisations. For example, professional football clubs have a standard practice of creating charitable foundations to address local issues, as Anagnostopoulos et al. (2022) observed in their study of European football. The foundations are separate from the clubs’ commercial activities, thus building trust and supporting continuous community engagement.

Athlete activism has become a major phenomenon within the context of CSR, as high-profile athletes use their platforms to campaign for social justice movements, ecological concerns and mental health. In the view of Kang and Matsuoka (2023), the phenomenon is a growing segment within sports-focused CSR, where individuals, not institutions, are leading the charge towards positive societal change. For example, tennis icons Naomi Osaka and Novak Djokovic have used their platforms to advocate for greater racial equality and raising awareness about mental health, respectively. These efforts often dovetail with more comprehensive CSR efforts undertaken by event leaders and organisations, thus maximising the effectiveness of socially responsible actions. Tedone and Bruk-Lee (2022) highlighted the role of individual actions in influencing organisational policy, a development that is rising in relevance within the context of sports.

Mega-sporting events, such as the Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup, have a specific context for the application of CSR because of the varied range of stakeholders involved, including government bodies, sponsors and local people, hence allowing for partnership-based social initiatives. The authors, Hwang and Henry (2023), argued that mega-events can be drivers of urban renewal, promote global goodwill and address pressing global issues, such as sustainability (Sdoukopoulos et al., 2021). However, the impact of these events is not always positive. Critics point out examples where the expected social benefits were not realised, leading to greater public distrust of CSR initiatives (Sant et al., 2023). To mitigate such risks, researchers urge the use of frank and measurable CSR policies that emphasise long-term benefits to communities over short-term financial rewards (Kang and Matsuoka, 2023).

In Italy, participation in sporting activities has long proved central to driving community development. While football remains the most dominant sport at the national level, tournaments like the ATP Finals have helped promote diversification of the nation’s sporting culture as a means of introducing new fans and creating interest in less popular sports such as tennis. Current scholarship indicates that Italian sporting organisations are increasingly adopting CSR approaches to address local issues (Valeri, 2019). Similarly, Fechner et al. (2023) highlighted the importance of sponsorships to support philanthropic causes, especially for events with international appeal. Thus, the ATP Finals, as they are being hosted in Turin, are an ideal case study in investigating how sporting events generate cultural and economic impact.

The issue of sustainability and CSR has gained prominence in the recent past. Cury et al. (2023) said that the use of sustainable practices has evolved from being a choice for sporting organisations to being a necessity for maintaining legitimacy. This change mirrors broader societal demands around sustainability and responsible resource management.

In addition, stakeholder management is central to the effective application of CSR. Here, Yiapanas et al. (2022) suggest an extensive framework analysing the interactions between stakeholders in the sport industry, highlighting the importance of collaboration between participants, supporters, sponsors and regulatory bodies to achieve common goals (Webb and Orr, 2024).

Measuring the impact of CSR programs poses significant challenges for the sport industry since conventional metrics – i.e. financial performance and attendance rates – do not sufficiently capture the social benefits inherent in CSR (Park et al., 2024). Scholars provide support for the use of holistic measurement frameworks that cover social, environmental and economic metrics (Wang et al., 2024). Kang and Matsuoka (2023), for instance, studied the relationship between CSR programs and organisational effectiveness, finding that well-implemented CSR programs improve brand loyalty and stakeholder trust. In a similar vein, Tedone and Bruk-Lee (2022) discussed employees’ perceptions of CSR and organisational culture, highlighting its importance in the team sports domain.

Tennis provides unique opportunities for CSR implementation through its individualised nature and cross-border international popularity; therefore, both the ATP and WTA have introduced initiatives that seek to promote gender equity, youth development and environmental stewardship. These activities align with generalised trends working across the sports sector; however, they face unique problems. One of these is the globalised structure of tennis, requiring efficient coordination of a diverse range of stakeholders (Ramasamy et al., 2022). There is also a conflict between commercial and moral interests (Martinho et al., 2024). Balancing these competing forces is essential in ensuring that CSR-related activities in tennis achieve their desired goals.

Mega-events have long captivated scholars and policymakers due to their transformative potential for host cities and nations. These events can generate significant economic benefits, including increased tourism, improved infrastructure and enhanced global visibility (Baumann and Matheson, 2018; Ritchie, 1984). For instance, Fourie and Santana-Gallego (2011) used a gravity model to demonstrate that hosting mega-events could increase tourist arrivals by 8% annually. However, the economic impact of mega-events remains contentious. Baumann and Matheson (2018) and Mitchell and Stewart (2015) observed that factors like crowding out, congestion and local resistance often counteract projected benefits. Furthermore, the financial burden of bidding for and hosting these events, such as the billions spent on the 2012 London Olympics, raises questions about their long-term sustainability (Gibson et al., 2012). Mega-events have also been evaluated through the lens of urban development. Cities often use these events as catalysts for large-scale urban regeneration projects. Preuss (2007) highlighted the concept of “event-led urban development” whereby the infrastructure created for events contributes to the long-term growth of cities. However, Schulz (2010) noted that the short duration of mega-events – usually spanning only a few weeks – limits their ability to deliver sustained urban benefits. Critics argue that many projects serve the event’s immediate needs rather than the long-term interests of local communities, often resulting in underutilised facilities or “white elephant” stadiums post-event.

In sport management, the role of stakeholders in mega-events has been extensively studied. Stakeholder theory emphasises the importance of balancing the diverse needs of groups, including local residents, businesses and governments (Freeman, 1984). Mega-events present challenges in this regard, as their scale often amplifies conflicts between stakeholders, like Thomson et al. (2019) documented local resistance in cities like Boston and Rome, which withdrew bids for the 2024 Olympics due to concerns over financial risks and social displacement.

Given the challenges associated with mega-events, researchers have increasingly turned their attention to recurring sporting events. Unlike one-time mega-events, recurring events like Formula 1 races, PGA Golf tournaments and ATP Tennis Finals provide ongoing opportunities for host cities to attract tourists, generate revenue and foster community engagement (Giampiccoli et al., 2015). These events typically require less financial investment and leverage existing infrastructure, making them more sustainable and adaptable to local contexts.

The ATP Finals, an annual tennis event featuring the top eight male players, represents a compelling case of a recurring international sporting event. Turin’s selection as the host city reflects a strategic effort to enhance its global profile and stimulate local economic growth. Drawing on the literature, the ATP Finals can be seen as an example of how smaller-scale, regular events can achieve many of the benefits associated with mega-events while mitigating their drawbacks. The tournament’s reliance on pre-existing facilities, coupled with its ability to attract international audiences, aligns with the findings of Wan and Song (2019), who advocate for recurring events as a more viable option for cities seeking long-term development.

Despite the growing interest in recurring events, limited research has directly compared their impacts to those of mega-events. Huang et al. (2014) partially addressed this gap by analysing three major sports events in China, but their inclusion of local spending muddled the results. This study seeks to build on their work by focusing specifically on the ATP Finals in Turin, examining how this recurring event contributes to urban development, stakeholder engagement and community value creation.

Over the past few years, academic conceptualisation of sport event legacies has developed from a limited conceptualisation of short-term impact to a more coherent and organised examination of legacies. Preuss (2019) makes perhaps the most developed theoretical contribution in the field by way of the differentiation between impacts – the immediate and frequently temporary effects of the hosting of a sport event – and legacies, which derive from structural change and last longer than the time span provided by the event. This change in attitude is especially applicable to events like the ATP Finals in Turin, which, while not a mega-event, are recurrent and designed to have a cumulative and permanent effect on the host city.

Preuss (2019) contended that legacy is not a post-event only, but starts with bidding and consists of tangible and intangible aspects. He defines legacy as any consequences that affect people and/or space caused by structural change induced by the event. This extends the earlier positive/negative and planned/unplanned legacy dichotomy (Preuss, 2007) and instead advocates a holistic approach with seven underlying foundational premises (FPs), ranging from structural change and value co-creation to legacy’s dynamic and context-dependent nature. Transposed to the Turin case, then, the ATP Finals can be seen to effect structural change on three principal axes: urban development, cultural engagement and sporting practice. Though some of these effects might seem short-term in nature – e.g. higher levels of tourism or enhanced transport infrastructure – Preuss’ theory enables us to note how these are founded upon more long-term transformations of city image, stakeholder collaboration and sport governance. The co-creation idea at the heart of Preuss’ model is especially revealing in the Turin example. The legacy value of the event is not created by its organisers or the ATP Tour itself, but in collaboration with a variety of stakeholders, including the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation, local governments and sponsors. Preuss also makes a crucial methodological observation: legacy must be measured based on outcome and process-oriented indicators. Whereas outcome-based measurement takes into account the material investments or expenditures in specified areas, process-oriented analysis addresses how structural change unfolds, interacts and becomes reproduced in the long term. In Turin’s case, this double outlook is necessary to differentiate between what is generated by the ATP Finals (i.e. visibility, tourist growth) and what, in the long run, they can facilitate (i.e. rebranding of the city’s brand image, social integration through sport, professionalisation of event management processes). In addition, Preuss (2019) highlighted that legacies vary by stakeholder group and territorial level. A legacy, being of positive value to the sponsor or tourist board, may not be of equal importance to native residents, therefore an understanding of who profits is needed from an analysis of stakeholder relations (Grix et al., 2017; Scheu and Preuss, 2017).

Cumulatively, Preuss (2019) event legacy model compliments the foundation of the paper providing a conceptual model for examining the long-term impact of the ATP Finals in Turin. It enables the study to move beyond descriptive effects and instead ask how the event has transformed the urban and cultural landscape of the city, opened up possibilities for community participation and played a role in repositioning tennis within Italian national imagination.

Stakeholder theory, originally articulated by Freeman (1984), posits that organisations must consider the interests and influence of all parties that can affect or be affected by their actions. This approach is particularly pertinent in the sports industry, where multiple stakeholder – ranging from athletes, teams, sponsors and fans to local communities and government entities – interact in complex ways. According to Freeman (1984), effective organisational management requires the identification, understanding and balancing of these stakeholders’ needs and concerns. In the context of sports events, particularly large-scale events like the ATP Finals in Turin, stakeholder theory provides a useful lens to analyse the inter-relations between different actors and the overall impact of the event.

In sport, stakeholders can be divided into primary and secondary groups. Primary stakeholders include entities that have a direct financial or operational interest in the event, such as sponsors, event organisers, athletes and governing bodies. Secondary stakeholders, though less directly involved, still play significant roles, such as local residents, media and advocacy groups. A key tenet of stakeholder theory is that organisations need to manage relationships with all these stakeholders to ensure both short- and long-term success. For sports events like the ATP Finals, stakeholder theory helps understand how each group’s objectives, whether financial, social or cultural, intersect and influence the event’s planning and outcomes.

According to Anagnostopoulos et al. (2022), sports events create opportunities for various stakeholders to collaborate in ways that align both business interests and community welfare, thus creating value for all parties involved. However, the stakeholder theory also highlights the challenges that arise when the interests of various stakeholders are in conflict. For example, the commercial interests of sponsors may not always align with the local community’s values or needs. Here, sports organisations need to navigate these tensions by creating strategies that balance economic goals with social responsibility and sustainability (Fechner et al., 2023). In the case of the ATP Finals in Turin, this may involve balancing the expectations of international sponsors with the city’s long-term cultural and economic goals.

From an economic perspective, hosting large-scale sports events can stimulate local economies through tourism, infrastructure development and increased consumption. This aligns with the findings of Chiu et al. (2023), who emphasised the role of sports events in driving economic growth in host cities. The influx of international visitors, the creation of temporary jobs and the visibility of the host city on a global stage can result in immediate financial benefits. Moreover, long-term gains may come from increased investment in infrastructure, such as improved transport systems or the construction of sports venues, which continue to provide value long after the event has concluded.

However, the costs of building or upgrading infrastructure, for example, may outweigh the immediate economic returns. Studies have shown that economic benefits can vary greatly depending on the type of event and the level of public investment (Walzel et al., 2018). The case of the ATP Finals in Turin provides an opportunity to examine whether the event’s impact on the city’s economy aligns with expectations and contributes to long-term economic sustainability.

Sporting events can also be pivotal in fostering a sense of local pride and identity. According to Yiapanas et al. (2022), sports events provide cities with an opportunity to project their cultural identity on the world stage. Hosting such an event allows the city to showcase its heritage, traditions and values, creating a lasting association between the city and the event in the public’s mind (Mansouri et al., 2024; Orphanidou et al., 2024). The ATP Finals in Turin, for instance, is not just about tennis; it is also a way for the city to present itself as a modern, cosmopolitan hub for international sports.

Urban regeneration is another critical impact that sports events can have on cities, because the organisation often involves investment in infrastructure projects, such as sports facilities, hotels, transportation networks and public spaces, which can improve the overall liveability and attractiveness of a city. For example, the development of the Pala Alpitour/Inalpi Arena, where the ATP Finals are held, has contributed to the revitalisation of Turin’s urban landscape. These infrastructural developments can leave a long-lasting legacy, benefiting the city in terms of improved facilities and increased capacity to host future events.

In addition, sports events contribute to the branding of cities. As stated by Hwang and Henry (2023), the media coverage of sports events can create powerful narratives about the host city, transforming it into a global symbol. Through strategic marketing, event organisers can leverage sports events to position cities as dynamic, vibrant and attractive destinations for both tourism and business.

The evolving understanding of stakeholder involvement in major sporting events also plays a key role in legacy creation. The recent Research Handbook on Major Sporting Events (Solberg et al., 2024) includes key contributions such as Yamakita et al. (2024), who map the complex ecosystem of event stakeholders and Kristiansen et al. (2024), who explore the role of stakeholder management in promoting social sustainability during event hosting. These works point to the increasing necessity of cross-sector collaboration – among local governments, event organisers, businesses and communities – as a foundation for sustainable legacy outcomes.

Stakeholder theory underscores the complexity of managing the interests of diverse groups involved in the event, while the analysis of sports events’ impact on cities reveals the multifaceted benefits and challenges that come with hosting large-scale sporting occasions. As the paper progresses, these theoretical insights will guide the exploration of how the ATP Finals have shaped the city of Turin, creating economic value, fostering social cohesion and enhancing the city’s global reputation.

Building on existing literature, which focuses on sport event legacies, urban transformation and stakeholder engagement, the paper aims at addressing the following research question:

Focusing on the ATP Finals in Turin, the research aims to bridge the gap between studies of mega-events in global cities and the long-term, strategic use of sport events in more localised contexts.

The study adopts a qualitative research design to investigate the impact of the ATP Finals on the city of Turin. Focusing on how the event has created value for the city and enhanced the perception of tennis in Italy, the research aims to understand the intricate relationships between stakeholders and their contributions to the social, cultural and economic dimensions of the event. This design was chosen for its capacity to delve deeply into complex phenomena, offering insights into stakeholder dynamics and the broader implications of hosting a prestigious sporting event.

Fieldwork involved semi-structured interviews with 15 purposefully selected participants, encompassing a diverse array of stakeholders. These included key figures such as the President of the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation, the ATP President, government officials at both national (Ministry of Sport) and local levels (President of Region Piemonte, President of Province of Turin, Mayor of Turin), corporate sponsors (the communication manager of Title Sponsor and the PR Manager of a National Sponsor), media professionals (two international tennis writers and one Italian sport journalist) and local business representatives (a general manager of a hotel, a restaurant owner, a director of a museum and a touristic guide). The sample included 65% males and 35% females, with professional roles ranging from senior city officials and sport event managers to marketing executives and representatives of local business associations. Each participant provided unique perspectives based on their roles and experiences, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the event’s impact.

The interviews were conducted in November 2023 and in November 2024 during both the Innovation Summit before the competition and the Final Conference after the competition. The average time of each interview-session was 40 min and all interviews were conducted in person. The interview protocol focused on exploring perceptions of the ATP Finals’ impact on the city, stakeholder involvement, legacy planning and the event’s role in shaping Turin’s identity. The list of guiding questions used during the interviews is presented in  Appendix.

The interviews were conducted using a flexible, yet systematic approach to ensure consistency across discussions while allowing respondents the freedom to articulate their experiences and insights fully. This method was particularly effective in capturing the interplay of individual narratives and broader social and economic outcomes, aligning with the research objectives.

Thematic analysis was used to process the rich data collected during the interviews. Following transcription, the data was rigorously reviewed to identify key ideas and recurring patterns. Codes were developed to organise these findings, which were then synthesised into broader themes, such as stakeholder collaboration, economic benefits and cultural shifts in tennis engagement. These themes were interpreted within the context of existing literature, enabling the integration of empirical findings with theoretical frameworks. This methodological approach ensures that the study captures the depth and nuance of the ATP Finals’ impact while situating it within the broader scholarly discourse on sports events and urban development.

The ATP Finals is one of the most prestigious events in the tennis calendar, featuring the top eight male singles players and doubles teams competing for the year-end championship. Initially established in 1970, the tournament has evolved into a showcase of the sport’s elite, offering not only thrilling competition but also substantial global exposure. In 2021, the ATP Finals were awarded to Turin for a period spanning 2021–2025. This decision was a significant milestone for the city, positioning it as a hub for international tennis and reinforcing its commitment to hosting world-class events. Turin’s selection as the host city was influenced by several factors, including its modern infrastructure, the vibrant sports culture and the city’s proven ability to host large-scale events, such as the 2006 Winter Olympics. Moreover, Turin’s strategic location in northern Italy, its accessibility and its strong economic and cultural profile made it an ideal candidate to attract global audiences and elevate the sport of tennis in Italy.

The tournament’s presence in Turin has had a profound impact on both the city’s economic landscape and its social and cultural identity. The ATP Finals have not only provided a significant boost to tourism, hospitality and local businesses but also helped position Turin as a prominent player in the international sports scene. The city’s successful bid reflects its growing stature in the global sports community and its ambition to cultivate lasting relationships with international sporting institutions.

The findings from the interviews with various stakeholders involved in or affected by the ATP Finals in Turin reveal a multifaceted impact on the city and the tennis landscape in Italy. These findings are categorised into social, economic and cultural dimensions, highlighting how the event has created value for the city, enhanced its international profile and reshaped the local perception of tennis.

One of the most prominent themes emerging from the interviews is the significant economic boost the ATP Finals have provided to the city of Turin. Local business owners, particularly those in the hospitality and retail sectors, noted a marked increase in tourism during the event, with hotels, restaurants and shops reporting higher-than-usual revenue. A local hotel manager explained: “The ATP Finals bring in not just spectators but also corporate partners and sponsors, which fills our hotels and restaurants”. In addition, Turin’s tourism board emphasised the long-term benefits of hosting such a prestigious event, as the ATP Finals attract tennis fans and those interested in Turin as a cultural and sports destination.

Corporate sponsors, including multinational companies associated with the ATP, acknowledged the opportunity to tap into new markets through their involvement in the event. Associating their brands with a globally recognised sporting event, sponsors enhanced their visibility among an international audience, which translated into increased brand recognition and, for some, higher sales figures. Local businesses, particularly in the vicinity of the event venue, benefitted from the influx of visitors and the heightened international attention on Turin.

Moreover, the city’s infrastructure also saw improvements, with investments in transportation, public facilities and accessibility. The local government cited the positive impact of the ATP Finals on urban development, particularly in the context of enhancing the city’s image and positioning it as a major player on the international sports scene.

The social impact of the ATP Finals was also highlighted by the interviews, particularly in terms of community engagement and cultural pride. The local community leaders expressed pride in Turin’s role as the host city, noting how the event brought together people from various backgrounds and fostered a sense of shared experience. The President of the Region noted: “The ATP Finals have allowed us to showcase Turin’s cultural heritage to a global audience, making us proud of our city”.

The event also had a positive influence on local youth and tennis participation. Local tennis clubs reported an uptick in memberships and junior programs following the event, as children and teenagers were inspired by the performances of top players. In some cases, schools organised special events around the ATP Finals, incorporating tennis into their educational and extracurricular activities. This ripple effect of engagement with tennis reflects the broader potential of sports events to inspire future generations and increase the accessibility of sports at the grassroots level.

In addition, the interviews revealed that the ATP Finals fostered a greater sense of inclusion and diversity. Several respondents pointed out that the event attracted a diverse crowd, with spectators from different countries and socio-economic backgrounds attending the matches. The city’s ability to host an event of this magnitude, while simultaneously promoting local values of inclusivity and openness, was seen as a significant social achievement.

Perhaps one of the most significant impacts of the ATP Finals has been the transformation of tennis’ image in Italy. Before the event’s arrival in Turin, tennis was often seen as a sport predominantly for a specific, elite demographic. However, the ATP Finals have helped to break down these barriers, making tennis more accessible and appealing to a wider audience. Italian tennis fans, particularly those from regions outside of the traditional tennis strongholds in the north, expressed increased pride and enthusiasm for the sport.

The interviews also indicated that the ATP Finals played a crucial role in elevating the profile of Italian players, particularly Jannik Sinner, who had a standout performance in the years following the event’s debut in Turin. Several respondents noted that Sinner’s rise to prominence was partly fuelled by the increased visibility of tennis in Italy, which was attributed to the tournament’s presence in the country.

Another central theme emerging from the data is the evolving perception of tennis in Italy, particularly among younger audiences and in non-traditional fan segments. As a local administrator involved in community engagement projects noted: “We now have tennis programs in public schools inspired by the Finals, it’s no longer seen as a sport for the elite”.

The ATP Finals in Turin also showcased the power of collaboration among various stakeholders, including the local government, business community, the ATP and social organisations. The interviews revealed that the event had been used not only as a sporting spectacle but also as a means of fostering community development. The Italian Government Ministry emphasised: “We saw this event as an opportunity to build partnerships that could benefit Turin long after the final match”.

Stakeholders worked together on numerous initiatives, such as promoting sustainability through green practices during the event and organising community outreach programs. Local organisations partnered with the ATP and sponsors to offer tickets to underserved populations, ensuring that the event was not just a spectacle for the elite but also a celebration accessible to all residents of Turin.

Furthermore, the ATP Finals helped to align Turin with global movements in sports management, CSR and sustainability. As one of the sponsors highlighted: “Our involvement in the ATP Finals was not just about brand visibility; it was about supporting an event that stood for values we believe in, like sustainability and community engagement”.

The recurring nature of the ATP Finals from 2021 to 2025 introduces a temporal dimension that distinguishes this event from one-off mega-events, enabling a cumulative build-up of both impacts and legacies. Stakeholders widely acknowledged the significance of this continuity, with one city official noting, “What makes the Finals different is not just the size of the event, but the ability to learn, improve and deepen its local footprint year after year”.

Interviewees across sectors repeatedly emphasised the event’s potential to generate lasting legacies. For instance, the director of the museum observed: “The ATP Finals have become part of the city’s rhythm, not just a spike in November, it’s reshaping how we see ourselves as a cultural destination year-round”. This cumulative legacy includes improvements in infrastructure, strengthened local partnerships and heightened international visibility. A local hotel manager stressed how the “ATP Finals brought an international clientele that we had never seen before in Turin, and many of them promised to return”, highlighting both the short-term economic gains and the seeds of longer-term tourism development. Similarly, the mayor reflected that “the event was more than just tennis; it became a symbol of Turin showing itself to the world again”, capturing the socio-cultural significance of the tournament for civic pride and identity.

Local organisers implemented several environmental initiatives, such as reducing single-use plastics in the arena, promoting public transport and collaborating with local suppliers. The ATP representative explained: “The goal is to create a sustainable blueprint that can be applied to other tournaments too. Turin is our testing ground”. While these initiatives are still evolving, their presence indicates an intentional shift towards integrating environmental responsibility into the event’s long-term planning.

Although environmental sustainability is not visually represented, its emergence as a theme in the interviews suggests that future iterations of the model could incorporate a fourth dimension to reflect evolving stakeholder priorities The Mayor of Turin explained:

While the President of Piemonte Region added:

This layered understanding of the ATP Finals – involving immediate impacts, emergent legacies and growing attention to sustainability – offers a picture of how a recurring elite sport event can transform a city through temporary boosts and shaping its identity, creating also a big value for all stakeholders, which horizon is not short but very long. In fact, the President of the Italian Tennis Federation stated:

The Communication Manager of Nitto revealed:

Finally, an International Journalist summarised:

The findings from the case study offer valuable insights into the broader impacts of major sporting events on host cities. The analysis of the economic, social and cultural effects demonstrates how the ATP Finals have contributed to the transformation of Turin, positioning it as a significant international sports destination and fostering a renewed national interest in tennis.

From an economic perspective, the ATP Finals have undoubtedly brought substantial benefits to the city of Turin. Local businesses, particularly those in the tourism, hospitality and retail sectors, experienced a notable boost in revenue, driven by the influx of international spectators, sponsors and media attention. This aligns with the broader findings in the literature on sports events as economic catalysts (Anagnostopoulos et al., 2022; Fechner et al., 2023). However, the benefits are not confined to the short-term effects of event attendance. The ATP Finals serve as a long-term economic driver by enhancing Turin’s profile as a world-class destination. The ability of the event to attract corporate sponsors and international media attention offers a unique opportunity to market the city on a global scale, which has enduring effects on tourism and business development beyond the duration of the tournament.

Moreover, the infrastructure improvements made in the city – such as enhancements to transport systems and accessibility – illustrate the long-lasting economic benefits of hosting major events (Walzel et al., 2018). These improvements make the city more attractive for future events and contribute to the overall urban development of Turin, improving the quality of life for its residents. The city’s successful hosting of the ATP Finals also reflects a shift towards sports events that are aligned with the broader goals of urban regeneration, as seen in other global cities like London or Barcelona (Hwang and Henry, 2023).

The social and cultural impact of the ATP Finals in Turin has been profound, since the event has become a catalyst for local pride and identity, as residents and stakeholders came together to support the tournament. Several stakeholders, including local business owners and government representatives, emphasised the importance of the event as a symbol of Turin’s growing status on the global stage. This aligns with the growing trend of leveraging sports events to strengthen city identities and promote civic pride (Sant et al., 2023).

In addition, the tournament has fostered increased participation in tennis at the grassroots level, especially among youth. The interviews with local sports organisations and tennis clubs indicated a rise in interest and engagement in tennis, particularly among younger generations. This finding highlights the potential of sports events to inspire future talent and engage young people in sports, which is in line with the broader literature on the legacy of major sporting events (Fechner et al., 2023; Yiapanas et al., 2022). The ATP Finals provided a platform for Italian tennis players, particularly Jannik Sinner, whose success has resonated with Italian audiences and contributed to the renewed interest in tennis within the country.

From a cultural perspective, the ATP Finals in Turin helped to shift the perception of tennis in Italy. Historically, tennis in Italy was often associated with an elite, niche demographic. However, the ATP Finals played a crucial role in democratising the sport, making it more accessible and appealing to a wider audience. The tournament’s broad media coverage contributed significantly to this shift, showcasing tennis as an exciting, dynamic sport that appeals to fans from various backgrounds and regions. The event’s ability to engage diverse audiences is particularly relevant in the context of the increasing commercialisation of sports, where sports events have the power to shape national identities and alter cultural perceptions (Tedone and Bruk-Lee, 2022).

The success of the ATP Finals in Turin is also attributed to the strong collaboration between various stakeholders, including the local government, businesses, the ATP and community organisations. As the interviews revealed, the event’s impact was not only driven by the scale of the competition but also by the inclusive and community-oriented initiatives it promoted. Local organisations worked with the ATP and sponsors to offer tickets to underrepresented groups, ensuring that the event benefitted a wide cross-section of the population. This collaborative approach highlights the importance of stakeholder involvement in ensuring that the social benefits of sports events extend beyond the immediate event to the broader community (Anagnostopoulos et al., 2022).

The partnerships formed during the event also underscore the role of CSR and sustainability in sports events. Many sponsors highlighted their commitment to sustainability and community engagement, which aligns with the growing trend of socially responsible corporate practices in sports (Cury et al., 2023; Kang and Matsuoka, 2023). Embedding sustainability into the event’s operations, Turin demonstrated its ability to host a modern, responsible sports event that not only entertained but also contributed to the social and environmental well-being of the city.

The long-term impact of the ATP Finals in Turin extends beyond the immediate benefits of tourism and local engagement. The event has helped to position Turin as a prominent player in the international sports industry, with the city’s successful bid to host the tournament setting the stage for future events. The economic legacy of the ATP Finals will likely continue as the tournament attracts more sponsorship deals, media coverage and tourism in subsequent years, because due to the success of the organisation ATP have decided in November 2024 to extend the partnership with Italian Tennis Federation of other five years: It means that the ATP Finals will be in Italy until 2030.

The event’s legacy will also be shaped by its ability to foster long-lasting partnerships between stakeholders in Turin, ensuring that the city continues to benefit from the international exposure and business opportunities created by the ATP Finals. However, the challenges of maintaining the momentum and ensuring that the benefits are equitably distributed across the city will require ongoing collaboration and strategic planning among stakeholders.

The interviews conducted with stakeholders in Turin revealed several key insights that align with the existing literature on the impact of sports events on host cities. One of the most notable findings was the significant role of cross-sector collaboration in creating a successful event. Local governments, private sponsors, businesses and sports organisations worked together to ensure that the ATP Finals not only delivered a top-tier sporting spectacle but also contributed to the city’s long-term economic and social objectives. This mirrors the findings in the literature, which emphasise the importance of partnership networks in maximising the benefits of sports events (Anagnostopoulos et al., 2022; Yiapanas et al., 2022). Stakeholders reported that such collaboration was critical in ensuring that the event’s positive impact extended beyond the sports community, benefiting local businesses, tourism and the city’s international profile.

From the interviews, it was clear that the event’s focus on sustainability, including waste reduction, environmental initiatives and leveraging the event to promote social inclusion, also stood out as a key strength. These innovative practices reflect the increasing importance of CSR and sustainability in major sports events, as discussed by Cury et al. (2023) and Walzel et al. (2018). Turin’s emphasis on integrating sustainability goals into the event was praised by stakeholders, as it helped position the city as a forward-thinking, responsible host.

Another innovative practice was the active involvement of athletes in promoting the city’s cultural heritage and engaging with local communities. Interviews revealed that several athletes participated in social programs, school visits and charity events during their stay in Turin. This not only humanised the event but also allowed the city to showcase its local culture and history. This approach of integrating athletes into the broader cultural and social fabric of the host city is consistent with research highlighting the role of athletes as social influencers and advocates for positive change (Kang and Matsuoka, 2023).

Finally, the experience of the ATP Finals demonstrates the potential of sports events to revitalise a city’s image. Turin was able to leverage the event to enhance its global reputation, making it a key destination for international sports tourism. The interviews highlighted the city’s increased visibility in the global media, which positively affected perceptions of the city’s economic and cultural importance. This supports the findings of Walzel et al. (2018), who argue that major sports events can be powerful tools for enhancing the global visibility and attractiveness of cities.

The practices and strategies adopted by Turin for the ATP Finals provide valuable lessons for other cities and event organisers. One key lesson is the importance of long-term planning and alignment of the event with broader city development strategies, ensuring that the benefits of the event continue to be felt long after the final match is played. Another important lesson is the need for a holistic approach that considers all stakeholders, from local businesses to international sponsors, athletes and the community, since effective stakeholder management can facilitate collaboration, reduce risks and ensure that the event delivers shared value for all involved.

The Figure 1 illustrates the dynamic interplay between stakeholders, the three key types of short-term impacts – economic, social and cultural – and the long-term legacies.

The model illustrates the dynamic relationship between impacts and legacies in the context of a recurring international sport event such as the ATP Finals in Turin. At the foundation of the model are the stakeholders – including local government, private sector, sports organisations, community groups, local businesses, corporate sponsors, athletes, local organisers and the ATP – whose interactions and decisions shape the outcomes of the event. Their collaboration generates a series of immediate impacts that materialise during and shortly after the tournament, such as increased tourism and revenue for the hospitality sector, the strengthening of civic pride and community participation and the repositioning of tennis as a more accessible and culturally significant sport within Italy.

However, these impacts alone do not automatically translate into enduring change. As Preuss (2019) highlights, legacy should not be seen as a natural outcome of hosting an event but rather as the result of deliberate planning and alignment with long-term strategies. The model therefore identifies a set of transformational processes – stakeholder collaboration, integration of the event within broader urban and regional development strategies, sustainability and CSR initiatives and athlete-community engagement – that mediate the conversion of short-term outcomes into long-term value. These processes determine whether the event merely generates transient benefits or contributes to deeper structural transformation.

Through these mechanisms, the ATP Finals foster long-term legacies that extend beyond the event cycle. Economically, Turin enhances its international profile, attracting tourism and investment beyond the tournament itself. Socially, the city benefits from stronger community identity, broader grassroots participation in tennis and enhanced skills through volunteer programmes. Culturally, Turin consolidates its status as a cosmopolitan sports hub while democratising access to tennis. Finally, sustainability initiatives embedded within the event contribute to a broader sustainability legacy, promoting inclusive practices and environmental awareness that outlive the tournament.

In line with the systematic review of event legacies by Thomson et al. (2019), the model underscores that legacies are cumulative and multi-dimensional, extending well beyond the immediate economic impacts often highlighted in the literature. Situating the ATP Finals within this legacy framework, the study contributes to clarifying the conceptual distinction between impacts and legacies and shows how recurring sport events can cumulatively reshape a city’s economic, social, cultural and sustainability trajectories over time.

The ATP Finals in Turin provide a compelling case study of how a major sports event can transform a city by driving economic growth, fostering social and cultural change and reshaping the perception of a sport. The tournament’s success in creating value for Turin demonstrates the power of sports events to stimulate urban development, promote community pride and engage diverse audiences. As Turin continues to host the ATP Finals through probably 2027 (it will be possible that in the second five years term – 2026–2030 – there will be a relay between Turin and Milan) the city stands to reap both short-term rewards and long-term legacies, with the event contributing to the ongoing transformation of Turin as a global sports destination. The findings underscore the importance of collaboration among stakeholders and the need for a holistic approach to managing the social, economic and cultural impacts of sports events. Ultimately, the ATP Finals in Turin serve as a model for other cities seeking to leverage the transformative potential of major sporting events to create value for their communities.

The findings of this study align with existing research on the role of sports events in shaping urban development, reinforcing the idea that sports can act as powerful catalysts for both economic regeneration and social change. Ultimately, the ATP Finals have proven to be more than just a sporting spectacle; they are a vehicle for urban transformation, social inclusion and cultural exchange.

Examining the ATP Finals in Turin, the paper extends existing frameworks that have traditionally focused on one-off mega-events, shifting attention to the cumulative and progressive legacies of recurring international events. Building on Preuss’ (2019) event legacy framework, our findings illustrate that recurring events generate layered impacts that, when strategically managed, evolve into legacies over time. Unlike mega-events that often leave behind abrupt or discontinuous effects, recurring tournaments provide opportunities for gradual learning, adaptation and alignment with urban strategies, thereby fostering legacies that are both more sustainable and more deeply embedded in the host city. The model presented in this paper connects immediate impacts with the transformational processes that mediate their conversion into legacies. In doing so, the study advances theoretical debates, clarifying the distinction between impacts and legacies while also illustrating their interdependence. The model demonstrates how short-term outcomes function as the building blocks of legacy, particularly in the context of mid-sized cities where recurring events play a central role in repositioning identity and diversifying economic and cultural capital.

The research contributes to the growing scholarship on recurring sport event legacies by highlighting their cumulative nature. Each edition of the ATP Finals did not simply reproduce the same outcomes; rather, impacts built on one another, progressively strengthening Turin’s international profile, enhancing grassroots participation in tennis, and consolidating stakeholder collaboration. This cumulative effect suggests that legacies are not static “end-states” but rather evolving trajectories shaped by repetition and refinement.

From a practical standpoint, the research presents several implications for policymakers, event organisers and city planners seeking to leverage sport events for broader societal benefit. Firstly, it underscores the need to move beyond short-term economic gains and view recurring events as strategic tools for sustained urban development and socio-cultural repositioning. Local governments should approach such events with a long-term vision that includes place-branding strategies, civic pride-building and inclusive cultural programming to engage diverse community segments. Secondly, the research highlights the critical role of stakeholder collaboration; public authorities are encouraged to foster strong partnerships among various stakeholders (including local businesses, sports organisations, community groups and sponsors) to co-create a shared vision of legacy. Like show in the model, this approach can enhance trust, continuity and the long-term benefit of the event. Thirdly, aligning event delivery with broader sustainability goals (e.g. reducing environmental impact, improving accessibility, promoting social inclusion) should be prioritised. Hosting authorities are advised to develop legacy plans at the outset of the event cycle, incorporate monitoring mechanisms and ensure that initiatives born during the event continue beyond its duration.

While the study provides valuable insights into the impact of the ATP Finals on Turin, there are several limitations that must be acknowledged. Firstly, the research is based on qualitative data derived from interviews with a limited number of stakeholders, which may not fully capture the diverse perspectives of all involved parties. In addition, the scope of the study is confined to the first years of the event’s presence in Turin, limiting the ability to assess the long-term impacts comprehensively.

Future research could expand the sample size and incorporate a more diverse set of participants, including broader community members, tourists and international stakeholders. Furthermore, longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate the sustained impacts of the event over time, particularly concerning the social and economic legacies for the city. Another important avenue for future research could explore the potential of the ATP Finals to influence other sectors of the local economy, such as education and examine the broader societal impacts, such as mental health and social cohesion, that sporting events may foster. Finally, comparative studies with other cities that have hosted similar events could offer a broader perspective on the best practices for leveraging sports events to drive sustainable urban development and social change.