The governing bodies of tennis have united to create a special relief fund in order to tackle the growing menace of coronavirus. This crisis has affected different players in a different manner.
Especially the lower-ranked players have been hit hard as their sole source of income has gone away. This will help these players to cope with these challenging times. Novak Djokovic had stated earlier in an Instagram live with Fabio Fognini that such plans were under the stage of discussion.
Djokovic explains the new COVID-19 Player Relief Programme đ pic.twitter.com/uNn5ncvFW1
â ATP Tour (@atptour) April 21, 2020
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However, he didnât reveal the exact amount awaiting an official announcement by ATP. Additionally, he had said that tennis players would be free to contribute any amount of their choice. Letâs read the full text of the statement released by the governing bodies.
Tennis world unites
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âWith so much uncertainty around when it will be safe to restart the professional tennis tours, the International governing bodies of world tennis can confirm they are in discussions to create a Player Relief Programme to provide much-needed assistance to the players who are particularly affected during this time of the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.
These discussions have been progressing well and details are being finalised with an announcement expected in the near future. Already agreed is that the ATP and the WTA will administer the Player Relief Programme and all seven stakeholders will make a significant contribution.
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.
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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.â
This is certainly very hopeful for all tennis players.
