'Roger Federer may get that amount, but...', says former ATP ace

Illustrious confirmations in the ATP Player Council for the two-year period 2021-2022: Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal together with Felix Auger-Aliassime remain among the top 50 in addition to John Millman who joined the council in October after the PTPA schism. In the 51-100 range, the return of Gilles Simon, an important voice of the Council from 2012 to 2018, should be noted. Together with him, Pablo Andujar is among the “back rows”. Two veterans of the circuit will make their voices heard: Andy Murray and Kevin Anderson, outgoing president while Stan Wawrinka's coach, Daniel Vallverdu, despite being practically the same age or younger than almost all the players in the group, will be the representative of the coaches. The president and vice-president have not yet been elected, who will be chosen at the first meeting of the new Council in 2021. Former World No. 2 doubles player Wojciech Fibak believes Roger Federer is the only tennis star who can command million-dollar contracts from top-end sponsors.

Fibak on Roger Federer

During a recent interview with Onet Sport, Wojciech Fibak highlighted the difference in the brand value of Iga Swiatek and Roger Federer. “If someone offered Swiatek a contract, we should not expect that she would be paid a million dollars,” Fibak said. “Federer may get that amount, but he's the only one. The rest will get very reasonable sums.” Fibak acknowledged that the amount Swiatek commands is not paltry, but then pointed out that it's nothing compared to what even the established female stars like Serena Williams or Maria Sharapova get. “Of course, considering the Polish realities and recently Iga as well, it will be unimaginable money," the 68-year-old added. "But these will not be contracts that will bring her closer to the financial shelf of Osaka, Sharapova or Williams. Rolex is a great example, a luxury company works differently,” Fibak explained. “I know former and current Rolex owners. They believe that it is the star who benefits more from this collaboration and therefore Rolex usually does not offer high salaries. Only outstanding operas - Placido Domingo, tennis - Roger Federer or golf - Tiger Woods can count on high contracts.” Roger Federer last won a Grand Slam at the Australian Open 2018. Although, he has been reaching finals and semi-finals of Slams and big tournaments, he is not able to perform in big matches. Age is another obstacle as he will turn 40 this season and therefore, his reflexes will not remain the same. There is a belief among fans that he could still win the upcoming Wimbledon- a Slam that he has dominated. However, because he is nearing retirement, this could be his last shot at the title.

from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/3b6A55M