The tennis world is remembering longtime ATP chair umpire and tournament supervisor Paulo Pereira, who passed away earlier this month.
After 32 years with the ATP, including 2,540 professional matches officiated and more than 360 tournaments supervised, the Brazilian stepped down from his position as supervisor in 2013 but remained involved in the sport.
“I do not want to stop working with sports, mainly tennis, but I’m looking for new challenges, because to stop would be to leave behind a piece of myself with each passing year,” Pereira said at the time. “I want to stay active, looking for opportunities to help others with everything I have learned in all my years on the Tour.”
Internationally known and highly regarded for his work on behalf of the sport of tennis, he was a popular figure in his travels and considered the strong relationships he developed the most meaningful aspect of his tenure.
“Throughout my time with ATP, I’ve made many friends, among them my colleagues, tournament directors, players and coaches, and this means more to me than any other accomplishments that I have attained from the sport,” he added.
A supervisor for 15 years from 1998-2013, Pereira’s next chapter saw him serve as the Sao Paolo ATP 250 tournament director in 2014. He also held other roles in the Rules & Competition department after leaving his full-time post, including a role as a designation coordinator.
Pereira, who began a career in civil engineering prior to his work in tennis, said he was “permanently seduced” by the world of sport, which caused him to abandon that path in favour of a full-time commitment to tennis.
He is survived by his wife Marisa.
Pereira Remembered By ATP Friends & Colleagues
Carlos Bernardes, Longtime ATP umpire
Paulo was our mentor and a great friend. He was an inspiration to all of us. If we have many Brazilians, South American chair umpires, and line umpires working worldwide, we need to thank Paulo for that. I have many special memories of working with Paulo, but I will never forget how he was always there when any of us needed it. To congratulate or criticise, give some advice or even just listen. Paulo was always there. A great tennis official and an unforgettable friend. Rest in peace, my friend.”
Carlos Sanches, ATP Supervisor
“Paulo was not only a colleague for me but also one of my closest friends. He was also my mentor at the beginning of my career and I will never forget his very special sense of humour. He will be deeply missed.”
Laura Wawrin, Senior Manager, Rules & Competition
“Paulo touched my life in all the best ways. I am forever grateful to have had him as a true friend and mentor. I will miss him dearly.“
Ricardo Reis, Longtime tennis official
“Our trailblazer, our guide, our friend. An example of dedication, honesty and professionalism. We were very lucky to have him as our leader for so many years. On behalf of the South American officiating, we express our gratitude, our respect and admiration for his trajectory.”
Source Tennis – ATP World Tour
