The president of the International Tennis Federation believes the proposed revamp of the Davis Cup has enough support ahead of a key vote next month.
David Haggerty spoke about his bid to change the men’s team tournament during an interview with German publication Tennis Magazin. The ITF chief wants to turn the event into a year-end showdown. Where 18 teams would travel to one location to play over seven days in November. The plans have been backed by Investment company Kosmos, who has pledged to pump $3 billion into the tournament over 25 years. Kosmos is owned by Barcelona F.C. footballer Gerard Pique.
“We are confident about the election. We’ve spent the past six months consulting with national associations, players, fans and other stakeholders in tennis to get their feedback, and on the whole it has been very positive.” Said Haggerty.
“National associations acknowledge that our partnership with Kosmos represents a great opportunity to change the Davis Cup and secure its future in the long run.
“The reforms we are proposing will directly benefit national associations by creating significant new revenues for global tennis development.”
Despite the upbeat view from Haggerty, there have been sharp criticism of the changes. With some describing them as too radical. Some of the key critics include Yannick Noah, Amelie Mauresmo and Lleyton Hewitt. Lucas Pouille has also previously threatened to boycott the event if any change occurs. It is understood that both the Belgian and German federations will vote against the proposal being put forward.
“We continue the dialogue with the DTB. We hope that Germany, as a leading tennis nation, understands how well our reform nations are benefiting all over the world.” Haggerty commented about the current situation.
“From a global perspective, this is the right decision for tennis and I hope the DTB supports the initiative.”
The ITF hopes that the possible new format will help attract more top players to the competition. In the past, players have said that it has been hard to play in the Davis Cup due to their scheduling commitments. Regarding the controversial motion of removing home and away ties, the ITF believe they have reached a good compromised. Allowing home and away ties to be played in the early rounds of the competition at the start of the year.
“Bringing together the top 18 teams in one venue for a seven-day season finale will enhance the profile and meaning of the Davis Cup and appeal to the global audience.” The ITF chief claims.
A vote on the proposed changes will take place on August 16th at the ITF AGM meeting. The plan needs at least two thirds of the votes in order for it to go ahead.
