Roger calls out Novak’s underhand approach

ROGER FEDERER has accused Novak Djokovic of snubbing him as further rifts open up among tennis’ top players amid increasing political turmoil. In a rare public schism, the Swiss legend revealed he and Rafael Nadal are on the opposite side to Djokovic in the wake of the Serb leading a move to oust the English supremo of the ATP Tour, Chris Kermode. After reaching the Indian Wells Masters third round Federer said he had tried to speak to Djokovic, head of the Player Council, before a meeting where he oversaw the narrow passing of a vote not to renew Kermode’s contract. ‘I tried to meet Novak on the deadline,’ said Federer (below). ‘Unfortunately he had no time. That’s hard to understand. He suggested we see each other the day after, but everything was already decided.’ Federer is no longer on the Player Council, but remains a hugely influential figure. He is among those unhappy at how Kermode has been treated after a period of strong growth during his five-year tenure. Nadal, Stan Wawrinka and the body representing worldwide tournaments have also expressed their bemusement. ‘I want to know what the motive was,’ said Federer. ‘I’d have tended to be more for him. In the past, there were always situations in which one had to say: “He or she just has to go”. That was not the case with Kermode. ‘Many were behind Kermode. Not all have the same priorities. ‘Some think of money, others of the tournament calendar, others are more concerned with power. The tour is going well, we have great matches, the prize money went up, the stadiums are full.’