‘It has long been my vision’ – Billie Jean King says WTA merger with ATP is her dream scenario

Billie Jean King, who was the driving force behind creating the WTA in the 1970s, says that it was always her hope that it would merge with the ATP.
Roger Federer suggested it was time to combine the two Tours within one unified tennis governing body last week, and has generally found support from within the sport.
Now the highly influential Billie Jean King has had her say, revealing it was always her intention from day one.
“One voice, women and men together, has long been my vision,” she said.
“The WTA on its own was always Plan B. I am glad we are on the same page. Let’s make it happen.”
That sentiment was also backed up, importantly, but ATP president Andrea Gaudenzi, who has said he is very much open to the discussions.
“Recent cooperation between governing bodies has only strengthened my belief that a unified sport is the surest way to maximise our potential and deliver an optimal experience for fans on-site, on television and online.
“To that end, I welcome the views of our players. Tennis has led the way when it comes to putting men and women together on the biggest stages.
“It’s one of our many strengths, and sets us apart from many other sports.
“We look forward to continued collaboration and discussions with the WTA and other stakeholders across all aspects of our business.”
Follow us on Twitter @T365Official and like our Facebook page.
Latest
-
Tennis News
Naomi Osaka backed to win ‘another five to 10 majors as she that all-court game right’
How many Grand Slams will Naomi Osaka win?
-
News
Francesca Jones reaches maiden Grand Slam main draw after coming through Australian Open qualifying
Jones secured a 6-0, 6-1 victory.
-
ATP Tour
‘I’m fired up,’ says Sebastian Korda after beating Cameron Norrie to reach maiden ATP Tour final
Sebastian Korda too good for Cameron Norrie at Delray Beach Open.
-
Tennis News
‘You have left us here heartbroken’ – Juan Martin del Potro’s poignant tribute to his late father
An emotional letter from Juan Martin del Potro.
-
ATP Tour
‘Real fortunate to get through,’ says Cameron Norrie after beating Frances Tiafoe at Delray Beach Open
Cameron Norrie continues great run at Delray Beach.
-
Australian Open
Strict Australian Open quarantine regulations announced and those who flout rules face heavy fines
Officials will come down hard on those who flout rules.
-
Tennis Today
Tennis Today: Player in face mask U-turn, Rafael Nadal’s cousins following in his footsteps
Tennis Today features Osaka and Nadal.
-
Australian Open
‘I decided to stay home,’ says John Isner after pulling out of the 2021 Australian Open
‘It wasn’t an easy decision at all,’ says John Isner.
-
Tennis News
Kyle Edmund forced to withdraw from Australian Open due to long-standing knee problem
Kyle Edmund won’t feature at the 2021 Australian Open.