ATP and WTA to administer a Player Relief Programme
ATP and WTA published on Tuesday a statement to announce, with the support of the ITF and of the Grand Slams, the creation of a Player Relief Programme, “to to provide much-needed assistance to the players who are particularly affected during this time of the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.”
ATP
After some iconic players and coaches took a stand to financially support lower-ranked players during the Covid-19 crisis, the actions are coming from the tennis governing bodies. ATP and WTA published on Tuesday a joint statement to announce the creation of a Player Relief Programme.
We can confirm the international governing bodies of world tennis are in discussions to create a Player Relief Programme.
This will provide much-needed support to players who are particularly affected during the #COVID19 crisis.
— ATP Tour (@atptour) April 21, 2020
The main goal behind this initiative is “to provide much-needed assistance to the players who are particularly affected during this time of the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis”, as read in the statement.
The administrators of the men’s and women’s tours have support from the International Tennis Federation and from the four Grand Slam to make that wish a reality : “All seven stakeholders will make a significant contribution.”
The exact shape of the Player Relief Programme is still up to debate between all the parties. “These discussions have been progressing well and details are being finalised with an announcement expected in the near future.”
The ATP and the WTA appreciate the players’ role “in limiting the spread of the infection”
The press release also states: “The health and safety of everyone involved in tennis is the absolute priority for all the governing bodies, and the tennis community has been unwavering in playing its part in limiting the spread of the infection.
“This is particularly true of our players, with so many engaging their fans through messages of hope while reiterating the importance of staying safe at home, as well as demonstrating creative ways to stay fit and practice our sport to be ready for when the time comes that play can begin again.
“We know that for our players, as well as for so many people worldwide, there is the need for financial support for those who need it most and we look forward to finalizing and sharing the further details of a plan in due course.”
