Federer unsure over ATP role

 

Originally published on: 26/02/10 12:15

Ivan Ljubicic has quit the position after five months in the job to concentrate on his playing career and family having become a father two months ago. The 29-year-old Croatian believes Federer, the president of the ATP Players’ Council, would be the perfect replacement on the seven-man board headed by the tour’s executive chairman Adam Helfant.

Federer however, was less sure and said: “Maybe. Not tomorrow, maybe at some stage. I’ve never thought about it really. It’s nice that he thinks of me, that’s for sure.”

The Swiss star was disappointed to see Ljubicic, who represented Europe’s players, step down.

“I was involved in the whole process, so I was, of course, disappointed. Ivan is a close friend of mine, and I know how tough the decision was to make.

“I still hoped he was going to continue. But at the same time, he’s still an active player and wants to give it one last shot until the end of his career.

“Everybody completely respects that. It’s not end of the world.”

Federer, who has become increasingly involved in tennis politics, was also involved in the appointment of Helfant, a former senior executive with Nike,

“I met him in December and he also saw Rafa (Nadal) and Novak (Djokovic) before he got appointed, to sort of get the definite okay,” said Federer.

“He’s a smart man, smart and honest and a guy I think who will do an excellent job for the ATP.”

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