To be honest, Corsica has done a great deal for me, and I am very pleased to have the chance to do what I can for this island that I love so much. 

On the other hand, bridge has also done a great deal for me, and I feel that I am doing my best for Bridge. 

That is the reason why we are all here today in Ajaccio. I thought that the Generali Masters was a marvellous opportunity for my friends, the players, to discover the beauty of this island. 

I hope that you will all enjoy your stay at the event, with the warm hospitality you have already been receiving from the Corsican people, and especially from Dr Marc Marcangeli, the Mayor of Ajaccio, whom I want to thank on your behalf, as well as the Collectivité Territoriale de Corse. 

Of course, we will all thank for their incomparable support, the Generali Group and its President, the good friend of bridge, Antoine Bernheim, who unfortunately cannot be with us due to a business commitment. 

Thank you all also for your presence here, which will highlight the Generali Masters which I now declare open.