Roger Federer criticises ITF for making Olympic Changes – Tennis News
One of the greatest players in the tennis history, Roger Federer of Switzerland, has slammed the International Tennis Federation (ITF) for changing the qualification procedure for the Olympics.
A player has to play for his country in the Davis Cup/Fed Cup two times in an Olympic cycle according to the present rules but this will be changed to four appearances for the next games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016.
The 16-time Grand Slam champion plans to be taking part in the 2016 Olympics but he is not happy with the number of ties to participate in order to qualify for it.
Just like the new blue courts issue at the Mutua Madrid Open, Federer did not understand that why ITF did not consult this issue with the players.
Angry Federer said, "I disagree with this completely. I was in the room [in Miami] when the ITF presented this to us, I was not asked about it before the decision was made. They might as well have just sent us a letter. The ITF
makes it seem as if playing in the Davis Cup is the only place in tennis where you represent your country. That isn't right at all. They are forcing people to play, almost, and that is not a good vibe.”
The Swiss Maestro added, "I will have to see what happens. I am focused on this year and I will make sure that whatever schedule I have for next year best suits me."
Federer’s concern is right as some players opt to stay away from Davis Cup and Fed Cup due to their busy schedules. The Swiss Maestro himself plays on and off for his country, as he has to take rest between his commitments on the
ATP World Tour.
Sharapova had already voiced her concerns as soon as the decision was announced last month, as she also does not play regularly for her country in the Fed Cup.
Making his fourth appearance at the biggest sports event of the globe, Federer will be hoping to grab his first Olympics Gold in the singles event.
Though, the Swiss Maestro won Gold Medal in the doubles category with his compatriot, Stanislas Wawrinka, at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.
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