Tennis is another sport that has taken a big hit from the COVID-19 pandemic and the most affected players are the ones with low ranks. Aware that this would be a big problem for players ranked 250 and below, three tennis icons have collaborated to provide these players with some kind of assistance.
Various tennis bodies are currently having talks to determine a way to aid lower-ranked players who don't have federation support or sponsors. Novak Djokovic is fully aware that most of these players are independent and the 32-year-old Serbian revealed that he has already spoken to fellow ATP Player Council members Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer to discuss the situation.
"I spoke to Roger and Rafa a few days ago and we had a conversation about the near future of tennis," Djokovic said during an Instagram Live session with another tennis player, Stan Wawrinka.
Djokovic hopes that the initiative will also rub off on other players. The relief fund will be distributed to select players via model and criteria. This is to determine the people who would need financial assistance.
Other financial sources that could be added to the fund are prize money from upcoming events. Among the events lined up include the Australian Open. Djokovic suggests that the prize money be contributed to the fund.
"We have to show them they’re not forgotten. We also have to send a message to young players that they can live out of tennis when there’s a financial crisis," Djokovic said.
Djokovic is aware that roughly 250 players have already played qualifications for Grand Slams in 2019 and the Australian Open. After conversing with Nadal and Federer, all feel that players ranked 250-700 need support. They know that the financial struggle for these said players is for real.
"‘I feel like this is the way for us to show great unity, understanding, and compassion for our fellow players who are trying to make a living or at least not lose money in tennis," Djokovic said.
Tennis action was first suspended in March when the COVID-19 outbreak began. This caused the cancellation of Wimbledon, the first time it has happened since World War II. The French Open is another event postponed at least until September.
Looking ahead, Djokovic may have to worry about problems of his own if the outbreak simmers down. Djokovic is not to keen on vaccination and a problem could arise if COVID-19 vaccination is made compulsory.
"Personally, I am opposed to vaccination, and I wouldn't want to be forced by someone to take a vaccine in order to be able to travel," Djokovic said in a Facebook Live chat.
