John McEnroe and BNP Paribas Present the "We Are Tennis Fan Academy"

PARIS, FRANCE--(Marketwired - May 29, 2015) - 42 years after it first sponsored Roland-Garros, BNP Paribas has become the world's leading tennis partner and continues to innovate. On 28 May 2015, tennis legend John McEnroe reveals the "We Are Tennis Fan Academy" alongside BNP Paribas.

As a committed sponsor and fan of tennis, BNP Paribas wants to go further and see tennis fans support their favourite players and team in all tournaments, just like in the highly-charged BNP Paribas Fed Cup and Davis Cup matches.

The Group has therefore imagined and designed the "We Are Tennis Fan Academy," the first school for tennis fans. It aims to recruit and train "super supporters" who play by the rules, in order to liven up the various tournaments and competitions that BNP Paribas sponsors. Thanks to his personality and the victories to his credit, John McEnroe is both the Captain and ambassador of the academy.

The first fan recruitment session will start on 4 June 2015 on www.fans.wearetennis.com. Fans will be recruited via an unprecedented two-step digital experience.

From 4 to 20 June 2015, applicants will post a video on the website: they must imagine themselves in a tennis stadium and demonstrate all their supporter potential. The best, most inciting and enthusiastic supporters will be selected for the second step. On 22 June, they will have the privilege of attending a live interview with John McEnroe via the website. The most promising and convincing supporters will form the first intake of the "We Are Tennis Fan Academy" at the France vs. Britain quarter final of the Davis Cup by BNP Paribas at Queen's Club in London.

"As a player, I have always loved electric atmosphere and passionate supporters. When BNP Paribas asked me to be the ambassador of the 'We Are Tennis Fan Academy,' I did not hesitate for one moment! This project will be very positive for tennis in general, but also for players who like to feel supported, and above all for fans who will be able to support tennis like never before. I promise that this is just the beginning!" John McEnroe said.

Their time at the Academy will be s pent in an absolutely unique training camp. The day before the first match, the fans will settle in at the Academy and will start training. They will learn from a variety of coaches, with lessons in singing, dancing and dressing-up on the programme. They will receive and learn to use a supporter kit designed for the Davis Cup by BNP Paribas. Over the three days, they will bring their excitement to the mythical Queen's Club and embody the "Support Tennis Like Never Before" spirit.