The International Tennis Federation will proceed to work in direction of enhancing the Davis Cup amid low attendances in some ties in September however the governing physique is pleased with its present format, ITF chief David Haggerty instructed Reuters.
Although most ties did properly, some prime gamers like Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray stated the Finals construction – the place the 16 groups have been divided into 4 teams based mostly in 4 cities – wanted a rethink to make sure greater turnouts.
The outdated format of home-and-away ties performed over a number of days yearly was scrapped in 2019 after the ITF struck a take care of funding group Kosmos that has since ended.
“Well, I can tell you that we’re confident and pleased with the format we have, but we will always continue to find ways to make it even better and stronger,” Haggerty stated in a video name on Monday.
“This year the Davis Cup group stages (in September) were great. In a few of the matches there wasn’t enough attendance, it wasn’t the atmosphere that we wanted, but there were many that were.
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“You continue to work on your event every year. That’s what we’re doing.”
American Haggerty, 66, who was re-elected in September, was excited by ticket gross sales for the November 21-26 Davis Cup “Final 8” knockout phases in Malaga that includes Canada, Finland, Australia, Czech Republic, Italy, Netherlands, Serbia and Britain.
“We know from last year Spain didn’t reach the final and we had a full stadium for the semifinals and the final,” he added. “So we know we’re in a city that loves tennis.
“We have many fans that are travelling with their teams, so we’re excited about the Davis Cup and the format and where we’re going.”
Haggerty, who beat Germany’s Dietloff von Arnim to be re-elected till 2027 with a robust mandate, stated he would try to develop the game globally.
“The most important element is that the ITF is the global guardian of the game,” Haggerty stated.
“Our responsibility really is … we’re the only body that has 213 nations, we’re responsible for growing and developing the sport all around the world for the next generation of players.”
Boosting premier group competitions just like the Davis Cup and the ladies’s Billie Jean King Cup can also be a giant precedence.
“It’s great to have the ATP involved. Also, the Grand Slams have said how important both of these team competitions are, so to have their support as well is great,” Haggerty stated.
Source: sportstar.thehindu.com