ITF plans on new relief fund to support lower-level players

The ITF is in the process of finalising a range of additional measures to support stakeholders impacted by COVID-19, including a relief fund to help tour players ranked 501-700 not covered under other relief programmes. 

We are doing everything within our power to ensure that the talented players climbing the ITF pathway receive the support they need and continue their development during these uncertain times. Many professionals and organisations in the tennis world have been significantly impacted by this hiatus in our sport due to COVID-19. It’s not a simple blanket approach and this takes time. David Haggerty, ITF President

The professional tennis season was halted in early March and will remain shut until at least July end due to travel restrictions that numerous countries have implemented to contain the spread of the virus.

Earlier this month, the ITF, ATP, WTA and the 4 Grand Slams raised over $6 million to help about 800 lower-ranked players, who depend solely on their tournament winnings to earn a living.

Eligibility for this program took into account a player’s ranking as well as previous prize money earnings, according to criteria agreed by all stakeholders.

The ITF World Tennis Tour, however, consists of lower-rung tournaments and serves as a transition circuit between the junior and senior levels of the sport, allowing more professionals to make money as well as improve their rankings to qualify for the men’s ATP Tour or the women’s WTA Tour.

Further details of all stakeholder support schemes will be announced following the ITF Board meeting scheduled for 2 June.

“We are doing everything within our power to ensure that the talented players climbing the ITF pathway receive the support they need and continue their development during these uncertain times,” ITF President David Haggerty said in a statement late on Monday.

“Many professionals and organisations in the tennis world have been significantly impacted by this hiatus in our sport due to COVID-19.

“It’s not a simple blanket approach and this takes time.

“The ITF is reviewing all feasible and appropriate options to provide support where it is most needed amongst our different stakeholders.”