Published 08:01 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
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.
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.”
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.
He received support from Tennis players across the world.
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.
Updated 09:19 IST, April 23rd 2020