Exclusive-Players Association steps up welfare commitment with free healthcare service

BENGALURU : All tennis professionals will have round-the-clock access to free medical expertise under a programme launched this week by the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) which aims to level the playing field in healthcare.

The PTPA, which was established by Novak Djokovic and Vasek Pospisil in 2020, said its MedNet programme, which is available immediately, will connect players to a global network of specialists to give them continuity of care.

Unlike in many sports, tennis players are independent contractors and have had to look out for themselves with respect to healthcare beyond what is provided on-site at tournaments.

Former world number three Dominic Thiem said the programme would have been exactly what he needed when a wrist issue in 2021 stalled his career.

"I had to fend for myself and if you've never had such an injury before, it's always difficult because you naturally don't have contacts with the best doctors," the former U.S. Open champion said via email.

"I was lucky enough to eventually be referred to a specialist through several connections. I was also fortunate that my partner, Redbull, provided superb support.

"But only a few have these circumstances and for players who don't, a doctor provided by the PTPA is a huge help."

Having spent the last 18 months talking to players about the problems they faced, the PTPA found the two topics that came up most frequently were travel and healthcare.

The MedNet service, which is accessible to all players on the circuit, will be overseen by the association's inaugural Medical Director, Robby Sikka.

A 24-7 hotline will be available to players throughout the year, allowing them to come forward with medical concerns, seek opinions or independent secondary