(Reuters) – Novak Djokovic had a chat with ATP chief Andrea Gaudenzi forward of the Italian Open in Rome concerning his breakaway gamers physique, the world primary mentioned, reiterating that the brand new affiliation might be a “optimistic addition” to the lads’s Tour.
In a shocking transfer Djokovic stepped down as head of the ATP participant council final month together with members Vasek Pospisil, John Isner and Sam Querrey and introduced the formation of the Skilled Tennis Gamers Affiliation (PTPA).
“I did meet Andrea. We had a participant assembly and he did a presentation for us. It was about two days in the past,” the Serb instructed reporters after shifting into the third spherical in Rome with a win over Italian wildcard Salvatore Caruso.
“We stayed for about two and a half hours and I stayed during. I had a chat with him as properly privately. We have no points.
“We all the time had a really clear and open relationship, Andrea and myself. We now have recognized one another for a few years. I respect him lots.”
Djokovic has described the PTPA, which he mentioned has already attracted the help of greater than 200 gamers, as a platform for the views of the athletes that may co-exist with the ATP.
Tennis governing our bodies have, nevertheless, opposed the transfer and known as for unity now that the game has resumed after a prolonged shutdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We by no means mentioned we need to boycott or separate ourselves from the ATP or something like that. We need to work collectively on this ecosystem with ATP and everybody else,” Djokovic mentioned.
“The Gamers Affiliation goes ahead, it is crucial for us to have a 100% gamers illustration.”
Djokovic’s transfer has met opposition from Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal whereas appearing participant council president Kevin Anderson didn’t see how the PTPA might co-exist with the ATP beneath the present construction.
Djokovic mentioned he had exchanged greetings with Nadal in Rome however was but to speak with the Spaniard in regards to the PTPA.
“That is not gonna occur through the event for certain,” Djokovic mentioned. “Perhaps there shall be time for that subsequent week earlier than Roland Garros when we do not have matches for possibly three-four days and possibly that shall be an opportunity to do it.”
(Reporting by Sudipto Ganguly in Mumbai; modifying by Michael Perry)
