The current world No. 1 Novak Djokovic and No. 2 Rafael Nadal are due to play a charity match tomorrow in Kazakhstan.
The commitment of playing in Kazakhstan means the star duo are missing tournaments in Vienna and Basel, which could be seen as a priority to play over an off the calender match. The two players have got permission from ATP CEO Chris Kermode, however, some other people are not happy about this. Edwin Weindorfer, who is the director of the Vienna Open, is one of them.
“I do not think it’s good that there are exhibitions ongoing during ATP events. Players are ATP members. There is an off-season after the ATP Finals and anybody can play during that time,” Weindorfer said as reported by Express.
In reality ATP players cannot play any exhibition matches during weeks of ATP Masters 1000 tournaments, ATP 500 tournaments, ATP Finals, and should they violate these rules, they would be subjected to penalties. These are described under the player Major Offence Conduct Contrary to the Integrity of the Game, unless they get a special permission allowing them to do so as stated. The rulebook states “A player has the right to petition the president or his designee for an exemption to these requirements unless otherwise specified above,” which both players have done in this case, and now they’re clear to play.
“There was approval from ATP CEO Chris Kermode because, per rules, during ATP tournaments, an exhibition match cannot be held. So we need to respect that.” Weindorfer added.
The Vienna Open director isn’t the only one person to speak out about the topic. Thomas Muster, who is a former world No.1 and French Open Champion, has had his say too.
“The tournament [Vienna] will always share the top stars with Basel. Of course, Federer plays there and Nadal and Djokovic only play where and when they want. But despite some cancellations, it is again a top field.” He said.
It’s worthy noting that playing either Vienna or Basel could have kept Djokovic as world No.1 for a longer time. He is set to lose the leading rank to the Nadal on November 4 regardless of their results at the Paris Masters.