A few months ago, Roger Federer launched the idea of a merger between ATP and WTA in order to alleviate the heavy consequences of the global pandemic for the tennis world. The proposal had immediately received the support of numerous colleagues and professionals, but there was no commitment needed to carry it forward.
One of the peculiarities of tennis has always been the opportunity for men and women to share the stage in the most important tournaments. It is impossible to forget the success of Boris Becker and Steffi Graf in Wimbledon before the fall of the Berlin Wall, or the triumph of Roger Federer and Serena Williams at the Championships in 2012.
However, male and female champions almost never have the opportunity to play together. On this aspect Andy Murray has always fought fiercely, in addition to guaranteeing the fair prize pool between men and women.
Murray on mixed gender events
“I think sport lacks a bit of makeup with this stuff.
The Hopman Cup, for example, was a brilliant event in my opinion, “said Andy Murray.” Putting matches like Tennis Serena Williams and Roger Federer on the same pitch is so brilliant for our sport, “Murray continued.
“Not necessarily every week, but sometimes it would be fantastic. I would like to see Rafael Nadal on the field with some of the best players. When I saw Roger Federer and Serena Williams playing, it was great.
They were involved and I’m sure they liked it too, “said Murray. The clash between Federer and Serena was the highlight of the last Hopman Cup, with a record 14,000 spectators attending a historic event in the arena of Perth.
If Murray manages to violate his desire, more events such as the Hopman Cup (which could involve the best male and female players) could be organized in the future. Murray believes he can have an advantage when the tour resumes next month as he has experience returning from long layoffs.
The ATP Tour has been suspended since March due to the coronavirus, but will resume in mid-August with the Southern & Western Open, which take place on the US Open site. Murray has gone back in recent years after his string of injuries, but others may not be used to it.
“It will make a difference. You basically can’t replicate the games, it’s just not the same, “he said.
