Grand Slams: ATP’s Participation Agreement Has Damaged Tennis

The Grand Slam Committee (GSC) has completed several days of meetings with ATP, WTA Tour and other key constituents in a continuing effort to achieve a collaborative way forward for the sport.

During these meetings, the executive leadership of ATP was asked to withdraw the so-called Participation Agreement, which threatens to create alternative events against the Grand Slams. The publicity surrounding these activities has caused damage to the image of the sport and its players.

The GSC is disappointed in ATP leadership’s current unwillingness to void the Participation Agreement, the continued existence of which will have a negative impact on further discussions. However, the GSC remains determined to have constructive and inclusive dialogue with all constituents on important issues within the sport.

Accordingly, the GSC has committed to Working Groups on Calendar/Format and Marketing/Promotion with representatives from the Grand Slams, ITF, ATP and WTA Tour.

Since the calendar structure and format from 2005 onwards is one of the more urgent issues, the Calendar/Format Working Group is scheduled to meet this weekend. Additional meetings will be scheduled before and during the US Open.

For further information please contact:
Barbara Travers
Head of Communications
International Tennis Federation
Tel: +44 (0)20 8878 6464
Fax: +44 (0) 20 8392 4747
ITF Website: www.itftennis.com
ITF Olympic Website: www.itftennis.com/olympics
Davis Cup Website: www.daviscup.com
Fed Cup Website: www.fedcup.com