Published 09:19 IST, April 23rd 2020
Roger Federer suggests merging ATP and WTA; receives support from all quarters
Federer has called for a merger of the men's and women's tour, stating that the difference in rankings and various other aspects between them are confusing
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As Tennis wades through a lengthy shutdown owing to Coronavirus pandemic, Roger Federer has called for a merger of the men's and women's professional tour, stating that the difference in rankings, logos and various other aspects between the two are confusing. Federer garnered a lot of praise from fans and other players for his suggestion.
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Federer's administrative suggestions
“Am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one? It probably should have happened a long time ago. But maybe now is really the time.”
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Responding to a fan's reply, Federer said that different ranking systems, logos, websites, and tournament categories were confusing and that the merger should have happened a long time ago.
Federer ended by saying that instead of returning with two weakened sporting bodies, one strong body can emerge from Coronavirus.
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He received support from Tennis players across the world.
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Relief for lower ranked players
Federer’s statements came a day after the ATP and WTA announced they were joining with the four Grand Slam tournaments and the International Tennis Federation to form a relief fund that will offer money to lower-ranked players in need of financial help because of the COVID-19 outbreak.
08:01 IST, April 23rd 2020