Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal discussing ways to help low-rank players during shutdown

Tennis' 'Big Three' are concerned about the income of lower-ranking players during the shutdown
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Tennis world number one Novak Djokovic has revealed he has held talks with fellow superstars Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal over ways to support lower-ranking players during the coronavirus pandemic.

The global shutdown of the sport has seen both the ATP and WTA postpone their tours until at least June 7, with the Wimbledon Championships having been cancelled outright.

The lack of competitive tennis means many players who depend upon prize money to make a living have seen their most important income stream cut off.

Speaking to Swiss star Stan Wawrinka in an Instagram Q&A, Djokovic said that tennis’ ‘Big Three’, who have 56 Grand Slam singles titles between them, were concerned.

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"I spoke to Roger and Rafa a few days ago and we had a conversation about the near future of tennis,” Djokovic said. “How we can contribute to help lower ranked guys who are obviously struggling the most.

"A majority of players ranked between 250 to 700 or 1,000 don't have federation support or sponsors and are independent and left alone."

Djokovic is president of the ATP's Player Council, while Federer and Nadal became members last year.

The Serbian said it was vital to show players “they’re not forgotten” but warned it was important to make sure funds are distributed to players who need support most, rather than those whose rankings may have slipped but remain in a stable financial position.

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"You want to avoid giving money to player who fits into this category but does not need the money compared to someone else,” he added.

"I'm glad the tennis eco-system is coming together. Everyone realises the base of tennis. These guys ranked 250 onwards are the ones making the future of tennis.

"We have to show them they're not forgotten. We also have to send a message to young players that they can live out of tennis when there's a financial crisis."

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