Dominic Thiem unsure about the need for a relief fund
Earlier this week Dominic Thiem questioned Djokovic’s proposal, which has been supported by big names like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. The World No. 3 said that he does not believe all tennis players require funds at the moment, adding that he’d rather donate his money to other institutions.
Thiem’s words did not rub off well on some fans, but he has managed to find a few supporters in the tennis community. In addition to Rodionova, Argentine player Guido Pella also threw his weight behind Dominic Thiem.
“No tennis player is starving,” Pella told Metro 95.1. “I prefer to allocate money to help people who are dying. Tennis always looks at the one above, it is a sad truth. I prefer to assist people in my city who are dying and who do not have food, which is more urgent than sports.
“I love that there is support for the players to maintain the level, but I do not agree with the obligation to have to contribute without knowing the reality of each player. I’m more on Thiem’s side. I think it’s okay for ATP to step in, to try to make it fairer for everyone. Much debate is required."
Another critic of the players’ fund is Italian player Matteo Berrettini, who would like the donation to be an option rather than a mandate for the top 100 players.
“We wrote to Novak, it’s not mandatory," Berrettini said. “I prefer to help more complex situations, such as a hospital, a family in need, rather than a tennis player. There are many players who need help and go red. The plan is a very positive thing for tennis and shows that players also care about their colleagues from the rear,” he added.
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