Andy Roddick Says The System is Suspect

Written by: Staff on 13th November 2011

BNP Paribas 2011 Masters Tennis Tournament

Andy Roddick Says The System is Suspect

Andy Roddick of USA returns the ball to Andy Murray of Britain, during their third round match at the BNP Paribas 2011 Masters Tennis tournament in Paris, France, 10 November 2011. EPA/HORACIO VILLALOBOS |

Frustration is growing amongst the playing ranks on the ATP World Tour that the process of finding a replacement for Adam Helfant as executive chairman and CEO is proving a protracted business and Andy Roddick, never a man to hold back his opinions, let loose with his criticisms in the way he unleashes a 145mph plus ace.

Roddick was one of the most voluble players in criticizing the faults of the recent US Open and now he thinks enough time has lapsed for a new leader to be put in place before Helfant departs on December 31.

But Roddick admits the job that awaits the new man is not going to be easy. “Hopefully someone can get in there and win the battle of rhetoric one of these times and get someone to approve some changes,” he said.

“But under the present system, he really can’t. Some of the good ol’ boys club have it figured out pretty good. It’s not an easy position. It’s not as if we haven’t had smart people.”

Roddick’s career has spanned three different CEO’s at the ATP; Mark Miles, Etienne De Villiers and for the past three years former Nike executive Helfant. “We have had different types; very abrasive kind of showy personalities in there; we’ve had more of a demure, quiet, smart person in there,” said Roddick.

“We’ve covered our personality bases. I think at a certain point you have to look at the system as being flawed as opposed to continually looking for the scapegoat.

“You don’t go into negotiation and have someone represent both sides. It just doesn’t happen in any business transaction or negotiation. I don’t think it’s the CEO’s fault. It’s an impossible situation. I think the system is suspect.”

“DAILY TENNIS NEWS WIRE”

Topics: Andy Roddick