"It's nice to a responsible name in the mix" - Roddick on Federer being part of Cincinnati event takeover

Tuesday, 17 May 2022 at 13:00

Updated at Monday, 14 October 2024 at 13:56

byAlex Waite

Andy Roddick has spoken out in favor of Roger Federer's TEAM8 sporting agency trying to buy the rights to the Cincinnati Masters.

The USTA, the governing body of the Cincinnati Masters, put over 90% of its stake in the event up for sale in February 2022. Unsurprisingly, there has been no shortage of potential investors looking to purchase a majority share of the competition, and Federer's agency has shown serious interest in this, too.

Federer is still playing and registered on the ATP Tour, although he has not featured since his quarter-final run at the 2021 Wimbledon finals due to a knee injury.

As a result, a potential conflict of interest exists about whether the 20-time Grand Slam winner can be involved in purchasing the rights to an active tennis competition.

Despite the potential controversy, Federer has already shown competency in business dealings. Alongside his TEAM8 agency, which the Swiss player started with his agent Tony Godsick in 2013, the former world number one has successfully launched the Laver Cup and running shoe brand On.

A solid business background means Federer and TEAM8 have the credentials to support the Cincinnati Open, while former US Open winner Roddick also believes the 40-year-old's background in tennis would be a huge asset.

As a result, the former US player has no issues with Federer potentially making a move to seal the rights for the ATP Masters 1000 event.

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"In the world of tennis, where conflict of interests knows no bounds at all, Roger can do this. He’s obviously been a great steward for the game, has created an incredible relationship with the fans in the city of Cincinnati."

In addition, Federer may have a personal attachment to the Cincinnati Masters to support his bid. During his 24-year career to date, the Swiss player has won the US-based event a record seven times.

Therefore, Roddick explained that a professional like Federer is one of the perfect people with knowledge and understanding about the sport and such an event.

The American elaborated in his defense of Federer, stating that only positives can result from his interest, although he acknowledged that many other parties remain interested in the Cincinnati Masters.

"You would like to see it stay in the tennis family, with someone who actually knows and loves our sport. So we will see, from what I hear, there are a number of interested parties but it is nice to see responsible names in the mix."