Shanghai Masters boss, Michael Luevano, appeals for player summit to address concerns – Tennis News
The grievances of Andy Murray, Rafael Nadal and Andy Roddick have been brought into consideration by the Shanghai Masters boss, Michael Luevano. He said “They need a summit with the Grand Slam present, the ITF present and the WTA
present and of course the ATP. Lock them in a room and throw away the key until they come out."
World Number 4, Andy Murray, recently suggested that players might go on strike but he cleared the rumours about the misconception created by his statement and clarified his stance with the following words “The players are maybe
coming across as being spoilt when I don't think that is the case".
The three players have been consistently pointing out the issue of hectic schedule the players have to go through in a calendar year. Nadal and Murray have also complained about the different tennis balls that are being used in
different tournaments. They said that it is very difficult for a player to adjust to a new tennis make every time and there should be some standardization which will reduce the chances of injuries occurring on regular intervals.
Reigning world number 1, Novak Djokovic, and former world number 1, Roger Federer, already pulled out of Shanghai Master due to injury and fatigue issues respectively. Micheal Luevano stated that this issue is not to be neglected
and some advancement to consider the requests of players should be made. He admitted that a big player missing from several events does frustrate the tournament officials; however, the players cannot necessarily be blamed for their absence.
As much as Luevano wanted Federer in the event, he understands the former world number one’s decision to pull out. He said “If he's not comfortable with how his body is feeling, and we just happen to be the tournament he can't
make, then so be it”. He placed emphasis on the balanced approach and wanted a meeting should be arranged which should apprise the concern of the players. He added that the balance between players’ demand and tournament needs should be kept.
Tournament officials just want players’ commitment but such issues can dismantle the relationship between players and Tennis Associations and hence there is a need to bring everyone on one platform and decide what is best for both
parties.
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