Laver leading Australia’s revolt against Davis Cup plans

Four generations of Australian Davis Cup captains and players, led by Rod Laver, John Newcombe and Lleyton Hewitt have united to oppose proposed reforms, saying they will ruin an historic tournament.

The Davis Cup is currently structured around a 16-nation World Group, contested over four weekends during the year. The remaining countries are then divided into three regional zones.

The International Tennis Federation wants the event reduced to a season-ending World Cup of Tennis final featuring 18 countries, which it says will allow it to attract more top players. The proposal must win approval at the federation’s annual general meeting in Orlando, Florida this month.

Australia is the second-most successful team in Davis Cup history behind the United States, winning the coveted title 28 times, and while Tennis Australia acknowledges reform is needed, it is against the plans.

“It takes away too much of what makes the Davis Cup unique and special, especially the home and away aspect of the competition,” a statement said.

It has enlisted a who’s who of Australian greats in opposition, led by Laver, who played Davis Cup from 1959-1973, winning between 1959-62 and in 1973. “The ties I played in for Australia, both at home and abroad, remain among my most cherished tennis memories,” said Laver. “I want players from all nations to continue to enjoy similar feelings when they represent their countries.

“Proposed changes to the format need to be subject to the widest possible consultation, to ensure there are no unintended consequences that could impact the great traditions of the Davis Cup,” he added.

Newcombe, a five-time Davis Cup champion as a player, was more strident in his criticism, calling the plan “a recipe for the death of the Davis Cup as we know it”. Fellow former Davis Cup captain Neale Fraser called the proposals “disastrous” while Hewitt said it was little more than “a money grab”.

The reform drive has been boosted by a US$3 billion (Dh11bn) partnership from investment group Kosmos, founded by Barcelona football star Gerard Pique.

“While evolution is required it should be to the benefit of all countries involved and not just a financial opportunity,” Newcombe said. “Change is logical and acceptable but if you turn a competition on its head, you lose the very definition of what makes it great.”