The tennis world number one, Novak Djokovic , has been embroiled in a controversy over the distribution of prize money for men and women, which was caused by some comments of Raymond Moore, executive director of the Indian Wells tournament.
"In my next life, when I return, I want to be part of the WTA because they take advantage of the success of men. They take no decision and are fortunate. Very lucky, "Moore said during his traditional talk with the media during the last day of competition.
"If I were a woman tennis player, I would kneel every night and thank God for the birth of Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal . Them are those who have borne the brunt of the sport , "he added. Hours later, Moore apologized for his words.
However, those comments were met with rejection by Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka, finalists in the championship Californian desert. "I think those comments are wrong and very, very uncertain" , said Williams, runner - up at Indian Wells.
Champion, Azarenka replied: "I think e s a problem that occurs worldwide . Not only in sport. Also in business. We try to talk about equality. Sometimes it is not recognized. The best thing women do is overcome those comments. No stuff about men are heard. "
When Djokovic's turn came, after his victory over Milos Raonic , the Serbian was not as sharp in his observations on Moore's comment, which, he admitted, was not "politically correct".
The Belgrade said that it is a 'delicate' issue and that women deserve "respect and admiration" for his achievements, among which included having achieved that in many tournaments financial reward is the same for both genders.
"The I applaud you for it. I say honestly. They fought for what they deserved and they succeeded. On the other hand, the world of the ATP should fight for more (money) because statistics show that we have many more spectators at matches men , "said Nole. "That's one of the reasons why I think we should win more , " he added.
And he emphasized: "While there is data, statistics and information available on who generates more attention and attracts more viewers, I think (the money) should be distributed fairly ."
When he was reminded the player that one of the qualities of professional tennis is the correlation between men and women of the ATP and WTA tournaments, and Jelena Genci was his first coach, he replied, " I have a tremendous respect for what women are getting in global sport. "
" I know what they spend with their bodies , which are so different from those of men (...) You know, hormones and stuff, we need not go into details. Women know what I mean. You have great admiration and respect for them to fight at such a high level , "he said.
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