Carlos Bernardes, 40 years in service to tennis

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Carlos Bernardes is one of the most recognized personalities in the world of tennis. A man who exudes humility in any of the tournaments where he is present and who possesses such a pleasant character and personality that have earned him the affection of everyone. After 40 years of career, he is currently umpiring at the US Open 2024, one of his last tournaments as a professional.

A key figure in multiple Grand Slam finals and Olympic events, Carlos Bernardes has also grabbed the spotlight for some notorious controversies. Who could forget one of the most remembered outbursts in Rafael Nadal's career back in 2010, where the Spaniard exclaimed, "You're telling me something outrageous, Carlos!" over a contentious decision. In an interview with the official US Open media, Bernardes reflected on his career, expressing immense happiness and even disbelief at all he has achieved in the sport he loves.

- His beginnings in tennis

Coming from a very humble family, Carlos recounts his first encounter with tennis in his hometown, Sao Caetano do Sul (Sao Paulo): "When I was 13, my friends and I used to jump the fence of a club when it was closed to play tennis. We had rackets with which we played in the street, but we found that place and went there. One day the club manager was waiting for us and encouraged us to sign up."

His first foray into umpiring came in 1984, at just 18 years old, due to the need of the Sao Paulo Pinheiros Sports Club to find line judges for a regional Fed Cup (now Billie Jean King Cup) tie. Young Carlos didn't hesitate to volunteer due to the urgent need to contribute financially at home, especially after the recent loss of his father, embarking on years of officiating in South American tournaments. After juggling umpiring, his own tennis training, and studies in mechanical engineering, Bernardes became a full-time ATP chair umpire in 1992.

- A distinguished spectator at every tournament

The Brazilian chair umpire is a true tennis enthusiast, often seen in the stands as a spectator at the most engaging matches where he's not officiating. Always with a smile, he engages with fans approaching for photos or autographs. As he puts it, "I had been thinking for the last few years about retiring until I decided that this was my last year. I don't come from a wealthy family... and after all this time, realizing I've visited over 100 countries and met people from ordinary folks to presidents, it doesn't seem real," emphasizing that "the passion for the sport is one of the things that has kept me going."

- One of the most beloved individuals

the emotional moment at the Conde de Godó, where he couldn't help shedding a few tears: "I never expected this, it's very touching when players, tournament directors, and the audience come to talk to you. I really appreciate everyone's affection."

Carlos Bernardes will oversee his final tournament as a chair umpire at the Davis Cup finals, an event where he is yet to debut. A figure who will be missed for his unwavering love for tennis, the same love he has devoted 40 years of his life to from the prime seat on a tennis court, in the umpire's chair.

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