Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal will face off in an exhibition match in Kazakhstan but this move has been criticised.
On the Djokovic and Nadal tie, Vienna Open director, Edwin Weindorfer said he doesn’t believe it’s a good move that there are exhibitions on going during active tournaments.
The rules state this shouldn’t happen but it was approved anyway and this is something that doesn’t sit well with him.
“I do not think it’s good that there are exhibitions ongoing during ATP events. Players are ATP members. There is an off-season after the ATP Finals and anybody can play during that time,” Weindorfer said as reported by Express.
“There was approval from ATP CEO Chris Kermode because, per rules, during ATP tournaments, an exhibition match cannot be held. So we need to respect that.” Weindorfer added.
“The tournament [Vienna] will always share the top stars with Basel. Of course, Federer plays there and Nadal and Djokovic only play where and when they want. But despite some cancellations, it is again a top field.” He said.