13 ° C
Profile

Month: February 2025

Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters 2025: AI officiating, luxury expansion, and a tribute to Elizabeth-Ann de Massy

by: Cassandra Tanti
07/02/2025

The 2025 Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters is set to embrace innovation with AI-powered line-calling, expand its footprint to the Monte-Carlo Beach Club, and pay tribute to the late Elizabeth-Ann de Massy. 

At the annual press conference and lunch, held on Thursday 6th February at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, Director of the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters David Massey unveiled groundbreaking innovations for the 118th edition of the tournament. In a historic shift, human line judges will be completely replaced by Hawk-Eye Live technology, and the tournament’s footprint will expand with the privatisation of the Monte-Carlo Beach Club, which will become the Players’ Village. The event will also pay tribute to Elizabeth-Ann de Massy, a key figure in Monegasque tennis, by renaming Court No. 2 in her honour.

The Hawk-Eye Live system will be introduced from 2025. Photo credit: Cassandra Tanti, Monaco Life

AI technology takes over officiating

“For the first time at our tournament, we will eliminate line judges, replacing them with an automated line-calling system,” announced Massey. The Hawk-Eye Live system, now standard across ATP Masters 1000 events, ensures maximum accuracy in officiating.

Meanwhile, Video Review technology will allow players to challenge more than just line calls, extending to double bounces, net touches, and other disputed points. “This system will enhance fairness and transparency, giving players greater confidence in officiating decisions,” Massey added.

A new Players’ Village at Monte-Carlo Beach Club

One of the most significant changes for 2025 is the transformation of the Monte-Carlo Beach Club into the Players’ Village, an exclusive retreat for players, their teams, and families. “We have expanded the site by 35% to provide an optimal and attractive space for players,” said Massey.

The new facilities will offer a heated pool, private relaxation areas, high-end dining services, and panoramic sea views. “This very special reception point is a major step forward for the tournament,” he added.

A dedicated pathway will link the Players’ Village to the courts, ensuring smooth access between the Beach Club and the locker rooms via the TV Compound.

The tournament site will be expanded significantly by the privatisation of the Monte-Carlo Beach. Image source: MCCC

Honouring Elizabeth-Ann de Massy

In a heartfelt tribute, Court No. 2 has been renamed the Elizabeth-Ann de Massy Court in memory of the former president of the Monegasque Tennis Federation, who played a vital role in the development of the tournament. “Her contribution to tennis in Monaco was immeasurable,” said Massey.

The court will now serve as the third main court of the tournament and will host four matches per day from 5th to 10th April. Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy, Elizabeth-Ann’s daughter, now leads the federation and continues her mother’s legacy in Monaco’s tennis community.

A growing global audience and enhanced fan experience

The Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters continues to expand its international reach, with over 148,000 spectators on-site in 2024 and 36 million TV viewers across 185 markets. Social media engagement remains strong, with over 240 million views recorded last year. The 2025 tournament will follow its established format, featuring 56 players in the main draw, 28 doubles teams, and 28 qualifiers. The official player list will be announced on 11th March in Paris, with the draw taking place on 17th March and matches starting on 24th March.

To improve accessibility, the tournament is also increasing public transport services, including additional buses and train connections, making it easier for fans to attend. On-site, the Click & Collect service will be expanded, and new spectator amenities will be introduced to enhance the event experience.

Increase transport for ticket holders will come as a welcome addition. Photo credit: Cassandra Tanti, Monaco Life

Charitable initiatives and returning events

The Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters continues its commitment to cancer research, supporting GEMLUC through its Points for Change initiative with BNP Paribas, which raised €37,204 in 2024.

Two key events will also return: Children’s Day on 6th April, offering young fans an interactive experience with players, and the prestigious Grand Tennis Night at Salle des Étoiles, a long-standing tradition since 1992.

As the tournament embraces new technology, expands its facilities, and pays tribute to a revered figure in Monegasque tennis, Massey acknowledged the support of both long-standing and new partners, including luxury eyewear brand Oliver Peoples.

With these advancements, the 118th Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, running from 5th to 13th April, is set to deliver an even more prestigious and seamless experience for players, fans, and the global tennis community.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Main photo credit: Cassandra Tanti, Monaco Life

Prince Albert II sends condolences after tragic Potomac plane crash

by: Cassandra Tanti
07/02/2025

Prince Albert II of Monaco has expressed his deep sorrow following the devastating midair collision over the Potomac River, which claimed the lives of 67 people.

In an official message to U.S. President Donald Trump, the Prince extended condolences on behalf of the people of Monaco, offering sympathy to the victims’ families and all those affected by the tragedy. He conveyed Monaco’s solidarity with the United States, assuring support during this difficult time.

The collision, which occurred on 29th January, involved an American Airlines regional jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter. All 64 passengers and crew on the jet, along with three soldiers aboard the helicopter, lost their lives. The disaster has led to an outpouring of grief, with families gathering at the crash site for a memorial service. A large wreath was placed near the riverbank as authorities continue efforts to recover remains and aircraft wreckage.

Investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) indicate that the passenger jet was flying unusually low at the time of impact, while the military helicopter had exceeded its approved altitude. Air traffic control had warned the helicopter crew of the jet’s presence two minutes before the collision.

Search and recovery operations remain underway, with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers leading efforts to retrieve wreckage from the river. Officials have confirmed that 55 of the 67 victims have been identified so far, and work will continue in the coming days.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photo credit: , Flickr

Tennis: Monaco beaten by Portugal in Davis Cup play-offs

by: Niki Borisova
07/02/2025
davis cup monaco portugal

Portugal narrowly defeated Monaco 3-2 in the Davis Cup World Group I Play-Offs at the Monte-Carlo Country Club over the weekend, with Henrique Rocha securing the decisive victory in the final match.

Monaco hosted Portugal for the Davis Cup World Group I Play-Offs on 1st and 2nd February, with all five matches played on the clay courts of the Monte-Carlo Country Club.

The tie remained competitive throughout, with Monaco pushing their opponents to the final match. However, despite a strong performance, particularly from Valentin Vacherot, Portugal secured the win, with the doubles match and a final singles victory on Sunday proving decisive.

The matches began on Saturday with two singles encounters. Vacherot gave Monaco an early advantage, defeating Jaime Faria 6-4, 6-7, 6-2. After losing the second set in a tiebreak, he responded with a dominant third set to secure the first point for his team.

In the second singles match of the day, Benjamin Balleret faced Portugal’s top-ranked player, Nuno Borges. Balleret struggled against the world No. 61, losing 3-6, 1-6, bringing the overall score to 1-1.

Monaco Life attended the opening match on 2nd February, a crucial doubles encounter featuring Romain Arneodo and Hugo Nys for Monaco against Francisco Cabral and Borges for Portugal. The Monegasque duo fought hard after losing the first set 3-6, bouncing back to win the second 6-3. The third set remained tight, but Portugal secured the decisive break to take the match 7-5.

With Monaco trailing, Vacherot stepped up again in the second match of the day, facing Borges in a crucial singles encounter. After losing the first set 4-6, he raised his level and took control of the match, winning the final two sets 6-1, 6-2. His victory brought Monaco level with the visitors, leaving the outcome to be decided by Romain Arneodo and Henrique Rocha in the last singles match.

Arneodo, facing the 20-year-old rising star from Portugal, fought hard to keep Monaco’s chances alive. Both sets remained close, but Rocha managed to break serve at key moments in each, securing a 7-5, 7-5 win to seal Portugal’s overall victory.

“We knew winning would be very difficult, but the team gave their best effort, and that is the most important thing,” said Monaco’s team captain, Guillaume Couillard, after the tie concluded. “Valentin [Vacherot] was just great. He raised his level throughout the tie and played some excellent tennis.”

The result means that Portugal have earned a place in World Group I and will play again in September, hoping to secure a spot in the 2026 Davis Cup Qualifiers. Monaco, meanwhile, will play a World Group II tie later this year.

Read related:

Tennis: Monaco to face Portugal in Davis Cup play-offs at Monte-Carlo Country Club

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photo by Monaco Life

Monaco students take part in global Holocaust remembrance as world marks 80 years since Auschwitz liberation

by: Cassandra Tanti
07/02/2025

Students from Monaco participated in this year’s Holocaust Remembrance Day events both locally and on the international stage, as the world marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz.

A delegation from the Principality traveled to the former concentration camp on 27th January for a historic ceremony attended by representatives from 54 countries and over 50 Holocaust survivors.

Monaco was represented by Isabelle Berro-Amadeï, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, who is also currently acting Minister of State. She was accompanied by two students, Johar Benbrikhou from the Institution François d’Assise-Nicolas Barré and Laura Vaselli from Lycée Albert Ier, along with their teacher Nikol Abecassis. Their presence reflected Monaco’s dedication to Holocaust education and the broader fight against crimes against humanity.

Back in Monaco, students continued the tribute on 28th January with a special theatrical performance at Lycée Albert Ier. Organised by the Department of Education, Youth, and Sport, drama students presented poetry by Charlotte Delbo, Nelly Sachs, and Paul Celan. They also paid homage to historical figures connected to Monaco, including resistance fighter Herbert Traube, deportation victim Mieczyslaw Oxner, poet and journalist Armand Gatti, and celebrated artist and resistance member Joséphine Baker.

With 2024 marking 80 years since the Liberation of France and 2025 set to commemorate the end of World War II and the discovery of Auschwitz, this year’s events served as a strong reminder of the need to preserve historical memory and educate younger generations.

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

Photo source: Government Communication Department 

 

2025’s Nice Carnival to celebrate Costa Rica and ocean wonders

by: Stephanie Horsman
07/02/2025

With Nice and Costa Rica set to co-host the 2025 UN Ocean Conference later this year, the Nice Carnival is set to honour the Central American nation as part of its wider King of the Oceans theme. This year’s celebration from 12th February to 2nd March will immerse visitors in an unforgettable fusion of life, tradition and sustainability, showcasing the magic of the ocean while highlighting the urgent need for environmental conservation. 

The Nice Carnival, known as Carnaval de Nice in French, is one of the world’s most renowned carnival events, standing alongside the Rio Carnival, the Venetian Carnival and Mardi Gras in New Orleans.

This vibrant festival, first mentioned in 1294 when the Count of Provence, Charles d’Anjou, noted celebrating “the joyous days of carnival” in the city, is considered one of the oldest and most significant carnival traditions in the world. The modern version we know today has been part of the local scene since 1873.

Visitors to the 2025 edition can expect all the cherished mainstays of the festival, from intricately designed floats and stunning papier-mâché creations to family-friendly daytime parades, nighttime light shows, the famous flower battles, fireworks, a dedicated Carnival Village and the increasingly popular Lou Queernaval—an exclusively LGBTQ+ event, along with a special dedication to Costa Rica and ocean conservation.

The Central American nation will be represented in Sanctuary: A Journey to the Depths of the Ocean, an artistic performance blending theatre, music, dance and circus arts, organised by Costa Rica’s Ministry of Culture and Youth. Sanctuary tells the story of a fisherwoman and her grandson, who embark on their daily journey to sea. A sudden storm leads them into a surreal underwater adventure, revealing a breathtaking marine sanctuary near Cocos Island. As they navigate this mysterious world, they encounter colourful, magical and even perilous characters, immersing them in an unforgettable experience beneath the waves. The journey ultimately brings them back to the surface, where they find themselves in a lush jungle, reinforcing the deep connection between land and sea.

Beyond its captivating storytelling, Sanctuary carries a profound message about environmental conservation.

Adding to the festive spirit, individuals dressed in full costume can enjoy free access to the illuminated carnival parades within designated pedestrian zones (excluding grandstand areas and subject to availability). This encourages participants to fully embrace the carnival atmosphere and become a real part of the celebrations.

For more information on the event, the programme and where to buy tickets, click here.

Read related:

Everything you need to know about the Nice Carnival

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

Photo source: Carnaval de Nice  

Cinema for Change: Monaco’s youth embrace filmmaking for a sustainable future

by: Stephanie Horsman
07/02/2025

At the end of January, almost 500 students from the Principality’s schools and the International University of Monaco gathered at the Théâtre des VariĂ©tĂ©s to view—and vote on—an array of short films that promote the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations, as part of the Cinema for Change initiative.

Organised with the support of the Monegasque Government, the Cinema for Change Festival aims to foster awareness of international development and cohesion among young people. This year marked the 14th edition of the event, which was held on 30th January, with Monaco’s students playing an essential role in selecting the winners of three separate prizes, divided by age group.

Marc Obéron, the festival’s founder, personally introduced six short films in competition to 22 classes from six schools across Monaco. Their votes will be combined with those of students from all over France and the seven countries partnered with Monegasque Cooperation—Burkina Faso, Burundi, Madagascar, Mali, Morocco, Mauritania and Tunisia—forming a vast jury of over 30,000 students.

University students from the Mediterranean-Middle East campus of Sciences Po Paris in Menton were later given the chance to screen the four pre-selected films nominated for the University Students’ Prize. Their involvement is part of an ongoing partnership with the Monegasque Department of International Cooperation, dedicated to educating young scholars on global challenges, human rights and the fight against poverty.

The grand finale of the Cinema for Change Festival will take place on 12th April at the GoodPlanet Foundation in Paris, where the winning films will be honoured. As anticipation builds, Monaco’s students can take pride in their role as changemakers, using the power of cinema to inspire a more sustainable and equitable future.

 

Monaco Life is produced by real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Threads,  Facebook,  Instagram,  LinkedIn and Tik Tok.  

 

Photo source: Monaco Department of International CooperationÂ