Financial aid worth £5m is served up
A FUND worth almost £5 million has been created by seven of tennis’ major governing bodies to assist players suffering financially from the lack of competition.
The ATP and WTA tours have come together with the International Tennis Federation and the four grand slam tournaments to create the package of support.
With the professional game currently suspended until at least July 13, and many of the circuit relying on event earnings, up to 800 players have been identified as potential recipients.
The grand slam tournaments - Wimbledon as well as the Australian, French and US Opens - offer the biggest pay days of the year and have played their part in building the fund.
The ATP and WTA will take responsibility for distributing the payments, which will be split equally between the respective tours. Prior performance will be an important factor in determining how much an individual is likely to be in line for.
Meanwhile, Rafael Nadal believes the 2020 tennis season is “practically lost” due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The ATP and WTA tours have already been severely affected by the crisis, with the French Open postponed and Wimbledon cancelled while doubts remain over the US Open.
“I hope we can return before the end of the year but unfortunately, I don’t think so,” Nadal said.
“I would sign up to being ready for 2021. I’m more worried about the Australian Open than what occurs at the end of this year. I think 2020 is practically lost. “I hope we can start up again next year.”