“It Will Need Some Compromise”: Roger Federer Gives Update on His ATP-WTA Merger Plan

One of the most promising ongoing debates in tennis is Roger Federer’s proposed ATP-WTA merger plan, and the Swiss maestro has now given an update on the progress.

Recently, the 39-year-old Swiss player completed a successful comeback after 401 days. He defeated British No. 1 Dan Evans in the opening round of Qatar Open 2021.

Post the match, the Basel-born expressed his views on the ATP-WTA merger. A while ago, Federer had suggested that the men and women tours should be combined under one single banner.

Although some are not happy with the plan, most of the delegates are in favor of the merger. However, the conversations have been going on for as long as anyone can remember.

Read More: ‘Working Together’: ATP Chief Echoes Roger Federer’s Idea of ATP-WTA Merger

Federer reiterates the notion behind the ATP-WTA Merger

To clarify things, Roger Federer opened up and illustrated just what the plan was. He also spoke about how the conversations are on but slow due to the ongoing pandemic.

Moreover, the 20-time Grand Slam champion also said that the suggested outcome would be advantageous for the players, and it would also mean more opportunities for women tennis players.

However, the current World No. 6 mentioned that while the merger would give something, it would also ask for something in return. But from a broader perspective, it was what tennis needed to become a dynamic sport.

Roger said, “I believe it would be beneficial for both tours to be together. But I feel like it’s been put a little bit on the back-burner… It will need some compromises on both sides, but it would be a great thing for our sport.”

If the merger was to actually happen, all tennis players, from challengers to professionals, would be governed and protected under one roof.

Read More: Djokovic’s PTPA, Federer’s ATP-WTA Merger and More: Big Talking Points of 2020 in Tennis

The return of Roger Federer at the Qatar Open 2021

With the way Federer performed, no one could believe that Federer had not played a competitive match in over 13 months. His classic backhand and swift moments yet again set the tennis court on fire.

Even Federer’s opponent, Dan Evans, played exceptionally well until the last game of the match. At 7-6 (10-8), 3-6, 6-5*, Evans failed to hit two easy returns, and it cost him heavily.

Further ahead, Federer will battle Nikoloz Basilashvili to reach the Qatar Open 2021 semifinals. Can the Swiss maestro win his fourth Doha title this year?

Also Read: ‘It’s Been a Long and Tough Road’: Roger Federer Wins His Rollercoaster Comeback Match Against Dan Evans