KLM SPONSORS THE McENROE SERENGETI TENNIS CUP

Tanzania's Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Angellah Kairuki, presents a souvenir to tennis icons John and Patrick McEnroe at a gala dinner held at the Gran Melia Hotel, in Arusha. The occasion marked the start of the Epic Tanzania Tour led by the McEnroe brothers, and unfolding against the backdrop of the iconic Serengeti. This exclusive luxury tennis-themed safari, sponsored by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, blends the allure of sports and the wonders of the wild.

Air France-KLM’s General Manager for East and Southern Africa, Nigeria and Ghana, Marius Van der Ham (centre), in a photo with KLM staff, during a gala dinner at the Gran Melia Hotel in Arusha, Tanzania. The occasion set the stage for the launch of the highly anticipated tennis-themed safari in the Serengeti, an event spearheaded by the legendary McEnroe brothers, and sponsored by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.

Air France-KLM’s General Manager for East and Southern Africa, Nigeria and Ghana, Marius Van der Ham gives his keynote speech during a gala dinner at the Gran Melia Hotel in Arusha, Tanzania. The occasion set the stage for the launch of the highly anticipated tennis-themed safari in the Serengeti, an event spearheaded by the legendary McEnroe brothers, and sponsored by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.

• The tennis tourney will take place at the heart of Serengeti from November 29 to December 8, 2023
• The tournament is organized by the legendary McEnroe brothers and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines as sponsors

Dar es Salaam, December 5th 2023: KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will be the sponsors of the inaugural McEnroe Serengeti Cup, a groundbreaking tennis tournament set to make history in Tanzania, by bringing the game to the villages of Serengeti and its people for the first time ever.

Scheduled to take place from November 29 to December 8, 2023 at the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, the tournament promises to be an unparalleled celebration of tennis and culture.

This unique event aims to popularize the sport of tennis in Tanzania in addition to a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Serengeti. The involvement of Tanzania's presidency adds a prestigious dimension, underlining the significance of this event on both the national and international scales.

For the people of Tanzania, this exciting tournament comes with many benefits, including a chance to engage with some of the world’s best tennis players, further motivating young people to pursue opportunities beyond what they are used to. Additionally, part of the proceeds from the tournament will be donated to community initiatives in the country.

KLM’s commitment, as a sponsor, reflects its dedication to supporting unique and impactful initiatives that go beyond traditional sports sponsorships. The airline has a longstanding history of connecting people and cultures across the globe, and this partnership with the McEnroe Serengeti Cup aligns perfectly with its values.

"As a global airline, we understand the profound impact of connecting people, cultures, and dreams having been present in Tanzania for 54 years now. We, especially, recognize the power of sports in fostering unity and inspiration, especially among the youth,” said Marius Van der Ham, Air France-KLM’s General Manager for East and Southern Africa, Nigeria and Ghana.

“The McEnroe Serengeti Cup, therefore, aligns perfectly with our objectives, mirroring our dedication to fostering connections and supporting initiatives that enrich communities that we fly to”

The tournament promises to captivate tennis enthusiasts, sports fans, and cultural aficionados globally. Beyond thrilling matches, the tournament offers a unique blend of on-court excitement and off-court experiences, including cultural performances, local cuisine, and guided Serengeti tours, providing a holistic and immersive event.

About KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

For over a century, KLM has been a pioneer in the airline industry. KLM is the oldest airline still operating under its original name and aims to be the leading European network carrier in customer-centricity, efficiency and sustainability. The KLM network connects the Netherlands with all of the world’s key economic regions and is a powerful engine driving the Dutch economy.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is part of the Air France–KLM Group. KLM is also a member of the global SkyTeam Alliance, which has 19 member airlines.

For more information about KLM, please visit https://www.klm.com/