ITF backs down

THE International Tennis Federation (ITF) has been forced into an embarrassing climbdown less than a week after backing a bid to create a new professional tour.

The ITF had accused the existing ATP tour of 'losing its focus', but has issued a statement acknowledging 'negative and premature public debate' had halted discussions with an organisation interested in promoting a rival tour.

The statement admitted the ITF 'had not completed the complex negotiations and considerations' necessary to launch an alternative tour, but did not rule out support for a future project.