This archive report was first published on 21 April 2020.
On April 18, 2020, Novak Djokovic announced a plan to help low-ranked tennis players affected by the coronavirus pandemic. The plan, which involves the 'Big Three' of tennis - Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal - organizing aid for lower-ranked players, has been met with skepticism by Australian tennis player John Millman.
Millman, who is currently ranked 43 in the world, questioned why the issue of low-ranked players struggling financially had not been addressed before. He pointed out that lower-ranked players have often been left without federation support or sponsors, making them independent and vulnerable during difficult times.
Millman also suggested that the issue of unequal prize money distribution could have been addressed earlier. He noted that the 'top end heavy prizemoney increases' over the years could have been distributed more evenly to benefit lower-ranked players.
According to Djokovic, the plan involves the ATP, the four Grand Slams, and players contributing to a player relief fund that will be distributed by the ATP. He estimated that between $3 million and $4.5 million could be distributed through the scheme.
Millman's comments highlight the ongoing debate about the distribution of prize money in tennis and the need for greater support for lower-ranked players.
