The Fight Back!
In a move aimed at putting an end to the constant barrage of criticism and rumours of match fixing, the ATP have given all of their members until Thursday to come forward with any allegations or examples of match fixing or illegal approaches. They have also introduced a new rule to the hand book which will force the tennis players to come forward within 48 hours or being approached or receiving information concerning corrupt gambling practices, etc. A move in the right direction?
The ATP policy is the latest in a long line of attempts by a whole range of sports to clamp down on the corruption which, no matter how small, is having a detrimental effect on sport as a whole, with some sports suffering more than others. While the moves have been welcomed by many observers, there are some who fear that unless direct action is taken against the culprits then the situation will not improve.
The 48 hour rule for ATP members in particular is proactive, but the fact that members involved (or aware of) criminal gambling activities have always had a duty to inform the authorities does not seem to have changed. It is the astonishing cash figures on offer which seem to have turned the heads of the small number involved in these actions, so will the threat of sanctions (which have always been there) be enough to turn the tide?
In reality the only actions which will stem the tide are criminal actions, such as those ongoing and actually in court at the moment. If the would be “cheats” were to see others hammered by the authorities and receiving criminal records, would this have more of an impact?
There is nothing like the real threat of a prison term, and massive fine, to focus the mind on the job at hand, but will the authorities be able to push through what they believe to be strong cases with regards to fixing claims? Time will tell, but we have been here before on so many occasions…….