Roger Federer and Lleyton Hewitt sign up for 'revolutionary' new tennis format
Tuesday 25 November 2014 12:23, UK
Roger Federer has signed up to showcase a new form of tennis being billed as the sport's version of Twenty20 cricket.
The most successful player in men's tennis will take on Lleyton Hewitt in a Sydney exhibition match with a difference in the run-up to January's Australian Open.
The January 12 match will be played under new rules devised by Tennis Australia which the organisation hopes will revolutionise the sport - at least at a minor level.
There are four major changes to the traditional format - no advantage scoring, no service lets, tie-breaks at three games all and best-of-seven sets.
Game changer
Tennis Australia chief Craig Tiley said: "The new format is a game changer and is set to revolutionise the game of tennis, particularly at club and social levels.
"Time today is precious and this new fast format is perfect for any player who wants to fit their tennis matches into a busy lifestyle.
"To have Roger and Lleyton, our own great Australian champion, showcase the format for the first time is not only special for Sydney and Australia, but for the sport around the world."
Federer, who won the Davis Cup with Switzerland last week and has 17 grand slam titles, said: "I can't wait to come to the beautiful city of Sydney for this very special match against my old friend and rival, Lleyton Hewitt,"
And Hewitt, who has won nine of 27 meetings with Federer, said: "Playing Roger in this new format will be an exciting challenge for both of us and a lot of fun. It's a fantastic innovation for tennis, and one that I hope will take off."
