Novak Djokovic: Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal's opinions are very important
Novak Djokovic played down the buzz around the controversial situation surrounding the exit of ATP President Chris Kermode In Indian Wells. Roger Federer said the Serb had no time to talk with him about Kermode, which was surprising. Rafael Nadal said he was not asked by players to give an opinion. Djokovic said: "We welcome them as well as anyone else who wants to join the political discussions. The player council is only part of the structure. We are not part of the board or deciding anything. We are in consultation and collaboration with player board representatives. Federer and Nadal have been icons of our sport for so many years and their opinions are extremely important to everyone. If they want to be active and part of it, either officially or unofficially, I think it's only positive for us. I saw Roger today. We were cutting the ribbon at the opening of the center court. We had a small chat but there was no time to talk about the political stuff. Hopefully, we will have time in the next few days to go through some things."
Djokovic added: "I have not noticed anything from their side or from mine. It's not necessary for people to create any tensions or divisions between us. On the contrary, I have a good relationship with both of them. We always respected each other. We are rivals of course so it's hard to be friends. We need an open dialogue and for people to have different opinions. That's what a democratic society is. We all try and be part of that. It's frustrating for me personally and other players who have been part of the structure because it has failed us many times. And many times when top players wanted to be involved and be heard they felt like everything they have said was not really followed through in a way it was supposed to be."
from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/2Tn7Mnq
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