Greek rising star Stefanos Tsitsipas is the latest high profile figure to weigh in on the debate surrounding financial support for players during the Tour suspension after revealing a new initiative he is sponsoring.
‘Beyond 100 Support’ has been created by the world No.6 along with Patrick Mouratoglou. The current coach of Serena Williams and founder of the prestigious Mouratoglou Academy in France. A website has been set up to raise money for players ranked outside the top 100 on the ATP and WTA Tours affected by the shutdown of the sport. All professional tennis tournaments have been suspended until at least July. Meaning that players will not be earning during the period unless they have endorsements or other commitments.
“As the youngest player in the top 10, I feel responsible to help the future of tennis. I understand how critical it is for the sustainability of both ATP and WTA players ranked beyond the top 100 and how difficult it is to make a living from professional tennis, especially with no tennis events going on for an undefined period of time,” Tsitsipas said in a statement. “Through the creation of “Beyond 100 Support”, I hope to start a movement that my fellow players will follow suit.”
There are two ways members of the public can donate. They can do so via a direct link or make bids in the silent auction. Items available range from a bandana to a sporting weekend away for two people. Each item has a minimum price with the most expensive being $500. The top prizes include a ‘virtual meeting’ with both Tsitsipas and Mouratoglou, as well as an hour-long hitting setting with Williams’ mentor.
According to a press release, the money raised by Beyond 100 will be contributed towards a ‘broader approach by the ATP and WTA aimed at supporting lower ranked players.’ Earlier this week the governing bodies of the sport confirmed that they are working on developing a player relief program that is estimated to be worth in the region of $6 million. The fund will be administered by the ATP and WTA with all seven stakeholders set to make ‘a significant contribution.’
49-year-old Mouratoglou has previously called for urgent support to be given to lower ranked players struggling due the crises. In an open letter he wrote that it was ‘revolting’ that those players are unable to make a living.
“The situation of players ranked beyond the top 100 is becoming more and more worrying as they might not be able to pursue their careers — their passions — if the current health crisis were to last for too long.” He commented on the new latest initiative.
“Beyond 100 Support” emerged as a much-needed initiative to improve the conditions of those players in the immediate term, and gives us more time to build a solution for the long term.”
A full list of available items for the auction can be viewed here.
