3 Years After Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal’s Path-Breaking Proposal, Argentinian Tennis Legend Sounds off on the Sport’s Future With a Historic Statement

Swiss maestro, Roger Federer shocked one and all with a ground-breaking proposal for tennis in 2020. The 20-time Grand Slam champion vouched for a merger between the ATP and the WTA. Following this suggestion, serious considerations were taking on it. Private Equity company, CVC Capital even pledged to invest $600 Million in the merged entity. The proposal was backed by fellow tennis icons like Rafael Nadal and Kim Clijsters, who thought the merger will bring betterment to the sport.

However, as years passed by, there is still not enough clarity on the proposed merger. The financial aspect needs to be worked out along with the shape of the new association. Recently, legendary tennis player, Gabriela Sabatini, opened up if the merger should go ahead.

What did Sabatini say about the proposal of Roger Federer?

Argentinian tennis legend, Gabriela Sabatini, is a former US Open champion. During an interview, she talked about Federer’s proposal of a merger between the ATP and the WTA. The 53-year-old sounded positive as she gave her opinion on this plan.

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Talking about it, she said, “It would be a great idea. They are working on it, there are more and more mixed tournaments between men and women. Further, she also went on to explain how the merger will benefit the sport. On this point, she went on to explain, “It would be wonderful: both circuits have the same objectives, they are working in the same direction and a merger would bring many advantages to tennis.”

Back in 2021, it was brought to light that the merged entity will be called ONE Tennis. However, the financial factor was the major hurdle as ATP was earning a greater sum than WTA. Thus the move never reached its conclusion. Nonetheless, players duly backed the move for the betterment of the sport.

Nadal supported Federer

While the Swiss legend put forward his proposal, his long-time rival and close friend, Rafael Nadal came out in his support. The Spaniard said, “Hey @rogerfederer as you know per our discussions I completely agree that it would be great to get out of this world crisis with the union of men’s and women’s tennis in one only organisation.”

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Do you think this merger will elevate the sport? Let us know your views in the comments below.