The recently concluded Estoril Open witnessed the triumph of Polish tennis player Hubert Hurkacz, an accomplishment that has sparked widespread discussion due to the unique manner in which he received his prize money.
Hurkacz’s path to victory at the Estoril Open was a challenging one, as he defeated Jan Choinski, Pablo Llamas Ruiz, and Cristian Garin before securing a final showdown with Pedro Martinez. His exceptional performance culminated in a straight-sets victory against Martinez, earning him a well-deserved €88,125 in prize money (£75k).
In a departure from tradition, the customary oversized cheque presentation was replaced by a more contemporary approach. Instead of being handed a physical cheque, Hurkacz received his winnings through a bank transfer on a giant tablet positioned alongside the court.
This unconventional prize money ceremony prompted a range of reactions from fans on social media. While some found it entertaining and lighthearted, others viewed the process as ‘undignified’ and ‘awkward’. One social media user expressed a hope that such methods would not be used for awarding prize money in the future.
It is noteworthy that the inclusion of the tablet in the prize money ceremony is attributed to the event’s sponsorship by Portuguese bank Millennium BCP. The bank has sponsored the Estoril Open since 2015, when the tournament replaced the Portugal Open on the ATP Circuit.
Although the unconventional prize money presentation may have polarized opinions, it undoubtedly deviated from the norm and provided a moment of levity during the tournament. However, the reaction on social media underscores the enduring significance of long-standing traditions in the realm of sports. Whether this method becomes a permanent fixture or a mere anomaly, it has unquestionably made an impact in the tennis community and served as a memorable talking point for fans and enthusiasts.