Indian national tennis body meets players’ demands to try and end Davis Cup boycott threat

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

NEW DELHI — The All India Tennis Association agreed Sunday to most of the demands made by a group of prominent players who had threatened to boycott an upcoming Davis Cup tie.

The AITA said the demands met include changing the coach and a pledge to replace the captain, an increase in the share of prize money, and better facilities for players. Former Davis Cup player Zeeshan Ali is the new coach while Shiv Mishra is the current captain.

The group of eight players, who include Somdev Devvarman, Rohan Bopanna and doubles specialist Mahesh Bhupathi, are yet to respond to AITA’s offer. The players have threatened to boycott the series against South Korea in New Delhi from Feb. 1-3.

Prize money for Group I ties will increase from 50 to 60 per cent, AITA said. The players asked for 70 per cent, but that figure will only be paid if the team wins Group I. For World Group ties, prize money will be raised from 60 to 70 per cent, 10 per cent less than the players want.

The AITA also agreed to fire team doctor Vece Paes, the father of veteran player Leander Paes, the only prominent player who wasn’t involved in the boycott threat.

The tennis body refused to accede to the players’ demand to be consulted on the selection of Davis Cup venues.

12:19ET 06-01-13