Doubles specialist to replace Tsonga in Philippine Mavericks cast

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Mavericks are bringing in French Open doubles champion Edouard Roger-Vasselin to take the place of Jo-Wilfried Tsonga who had begged off from this year’s International Premier Tennis League (IPTL).

Tsonga begged off due to a personal commitment, according to IPTL Manila leg project lead Clementine Apacible who appeared in yesterday’s PSA Forum at Shakey’s Malate.

“Roger-Vasselin is a great doubles player. We’re excited to have him,” said Apacible, who gave mediamen an update on the Manila leg scheduled Dec. 6-8 at the world-class MOA Arena.

The 31-year-old Roger-Vasselin, a Frenchman, has seen action in the tennis’ biggest tournaments. In 2014, he won the French Open men’s doubles with Julien Benneteau.

The Mavericks, to be headed by world No. 1 Serena Williams, is out to give the UAE Royals, last year’s IPTL champions, a serious challenge in the second IPTL season.

Tsonga, also from France, played a key role in the Mavericks’ campaign last year. But he had to beg off due to personal commitments. In his absence, Roger-Vasselin stepped in.

Also playing for the Mavericks are Fil-American Treat Huey, Mark Philippoussis, Richard Gasquet, Jarmila Gajdosova, Borna Coric and Sabine Lisicki.

Expected to draw the crowd along with Williams is Spanish clay-court king Rafael Nadal who will lead the Indian Aces.

Apacible, who was joined in the forum by SM Lifestyle Entertainment advertising manager Stephanie Henares, is looking forward to the biggest sporting event in the country this year.

She said tickets, actually three-day passes that are transferrable, are still available. The event will be aired live by TV5.

“Great seats are still available. Nothing is better than experiencing it live – six hours of tennis each day. And we have the best venue ever,” said Apacible.

Aside from the Philippine Mavericks and the Indian Aces, also vying for the $1 million top prize are the Singapore Slammer, UAE Royals and Japanese Warriors, the newest team.

This year’s IPTL kicks off with the Japan leg on Dec. 2-4. Manila on Dec. 6-8, India on Dec. 10-12. Dubai on Dec. 14-16 and Singapore on Dec. 18-20.