ITF statement regarding AGM decision on Davis Cup and Fed Cup by BNP Paribas reforms
(August 4, 2017) The ITF AGM today voted on a series of proposed reforms for Davis Cup and Fed Cup by BNP Paribas. The AGM took place in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam on 4 August.
The AGM approved the following proposals:
- The finalists in both Davis Cup and Fed Cup will be guaranteed the choice of hosting their first-round tie in the following year.
- Match court availability and practice court requirements will be lower to reduce hosting costs for national associations.
- Davis Cup pre-tie commitments for players will be reduced to a single function combining the draw, post-draw press conferences and interviews, and an official lunch.
The AGM did not approve the proposal for singles matches in Davis Cup to be played as best-of-three tiebreak sets, rather than best-of-five sets. The motion received 63.54% support from member nations, but each reform required a two thirds majority in the voting.
ITF President David Haggerty said: “We respect the decision of the AGM but are disappointed that our member nations have not approved the full package of Davis Cup and Fed Cup reforms endorsed by the ITF Board. Change is needed to ensure the long-term future of these iconic and historic competitions, and we remain committed to working with our national associations and other stakeholders on finding ways to enhance Davis Cup and Fed Cup by BNP Paribas.”