New Delhi: Roger Federer has agreed to step in and replace old foe Rafael Nadal in the Indian franchise of the inaugural International Premier Tennis League (IPTL), organisers said on Monday.
Fourteen-time grand slam winner Nadal dealt a big blow to the fledgling tournament by pulling out because of “health problems” hours before Federer, the winner of a record 17 slam titles, stepped in despite initially appearing apprehensive of the league.
“I’m really looking forward to making my first trip to New Delhi and playing for the Micromax Indian Aces,” Federer said in a recorded message.
Federer joins retired American Pete Sampras, winner of 14 grand slam titles, in the Indian franchise of the four-team event, scheduled to be played from November 28 to December 13.
Philippines, Singapore and the UAE are home to the other teams and will each host a leg of the competition, styled on cricket’s Indian Premier League and offering prize money of $1 million.
The 28-year-old Nadal missed the US Open last month after failing to recover from a right wrist injury he sustained in practice.
“I am very disappointed to announce that I will not be part of the first edition of the IPTL,” Nadal said. “I was looking forward to representing Indian Aces and playing in front of fans in New Delhi in the exciting new League.
“I wish the team the very best and hope to be back next year.”
Men’s world number one Novak Djokovic, his women’s counterpart Serena Williams, Andy Murray, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and former top-ranked women’s players Maria Sharapova, Ana Ivanovic and Caroline Wozniacki have also confirmed their participation.
The teams will compete in men’s and women’s singles, men’s and mixed doubles and a men’s legends singles with one set per match, and no advantage scoring.
IPTL founder Mahesh Bhupathi said: “As a tennis fan, I am excited to see Roger [Federer] and Pete [Sampras] play for the same team, it’s unprecedented. I think Indian sports fans are in for a real treat.”
