The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) and Women’s Tennis Associations (WTA) are the two separate governing bodies for men’s and women’s tennis. However, Roger Federer has now expressed his desire for the merger of the two separate entities.
The ATP and WTA already work closely on many competitive matters such as rules and anti-doping. Currently, there are a few top-level combined tournaments on the tennis tour such as the four Grand Slams, Indian Wells, Miami, and Madrid. However, most of the tour consists of separate tournaments. Subsequently, the WTA and ATP have different calendars, broadcast partners, and commercial relationships.
Moreover, the two associations have different rankings and revenue distribution system. Hence, the merger of the two tennis associations would be in the best interests of the sport as a whole. The Swiss legend also feels the same.
“Now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis” – Roger Federer
“Just wondering…..am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men’s and women’s tennis to be united and come together as one?” Federer wrote on Twitter.
Federer’s post left many fans confused about what he is wondering. Subsequently, he clarified that he is talking about the merger between the ATP and WTA.
He also clarified that he isn’t talking about the merger of the two bodies on the court like the Hopman Cup but he is signaling of having a global tennis organization. He explained that it is a bit confusing for the fans with “different ranking systems, different logos, different websites, different tournament logos.”
The Swiss maestro also suggested that the merger should have had happened a long time ago. Nevertheless, during the current global crisis when the entire sporting world has been hit hard, it is the best time to unite as one “strong” organization.
Currently, Tennis has a hugely fragmented governance structure with the ATP, WTA, and ITF. Hence, the merger of the organizations is certainly difficult and complicated. However, it is not impossible. Tennis can also have a single governing body like other sports. What do you think?
