Kitzbühel Tourism Honors Herbert Günther and Markus Bodner for Their Outstanding Contributions
Kitzbühel, 03 August 2026 – The Generali Open Kitzbühel stands for world-class tennis, outstanding hospitality, and the highest standards of quality. Year after year, this prestigious ATP tournament attracts elite players, tennis fans from around the globe, as well as partners and sponsors, making it one of Austria's premier sporting events.
Since 2011, Herbert Günther and Markus Bodner have played a pivotal role in shaping the tournament's success. After the ATP event temporarily lost its tour license, they, together with their dedicated team, succeeded in bringing the tournament back to Kitzbühel and firmly re-establishing it on the international ATP Tour calendar.
As a token of gratitude and recognition for their exceptional commitment, Dr. Christian Harisch, President of Kitzbühel Tourism, presented Herbert Günther and Markus Bodner with the Gold Honorary Pin of Kitzbühel Tourism.
Under their leadership, the Generali Open has evolved into both a sporting and economic success story with an international reputation. Through entrepreneurial vision, perseverance, and exceptional personal commitment, Herbert Günther and Markus Bodner have successfully combined tradition with innovation. They created a solid economic foundation, built strong and lasting partnerships, and established Kitzbühel as an internationally recognized meeting place for the world of tennis.
Their impact, however, extends far beyond the sport itself. They have generated significant value for the region, strengthened tourism, supported the development of young talent, and showcased Tirol and Austria on the international tennis stage year after year.
Herbert Günther and Markus Bodner have also demonstrated a remarkable ability to identify and nurture emerging talent. They provided numerous young players with the opportunity to compete at the international level – often long before they became some of the biggest names in world tennis.
What makes their achievement even more remarkable is that many of these players have never forgotten where their journey began. Even after establishing themselves among the world's elite, they have remained loyal to the tournament and continue to return to Kitzbühel. Foremost among them is Dominic Thiem, whose career has long been closely connected with the Generali Open. The fact that top players repeatedly choose to come back to Kitzbühel despite an increasingly demanding ATP schedule is no coincidence. It reflects the respect, trust, and genuine relationships that Herbert Günther and Markus Bodner have built over many years.
Despite all their achievements, one priority has always remained at the heart of their work: the sport of tennis. This commitment has shaped the Generali Open Kitzbühel in a lasting way. Today, the tournament welcomes more than 50,000 visitors each year and ranks among Austria's largest and most prestigious sporting events.
For further information about the destination Kitzbühel can be found at kitzbuehel.com.