King, Federer, Nadal call for ATP, WTA merger

WTA founder Billie Jean King joined Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in suggesting "now is the time" to merge the men's ATP and women's body into one umbrella organisation to oversee the two professional tennis tours.

Federer, holder of the men's record of 20 Grand Slams, was the first to raise the notion on his Twitter feed, triggering an overwhelmingly enthusiastic response from King and Nadal.

"Just wondering ... am I the only one thinking that now is the time for men's and women's tennis to be united and come together as one?" Federer said.

"I am not talking about merging competition on the court, but merging the 2 governing bodies (ATP and WTA) that oversee the men's and women's professional tours."

Trailblazer King, who was a part of establishing the WTA in 1973 and was one of the 'Original 9' on the tour, said her support for the idea dates back decades.

"I agree, and have been saying so since the early 1970s. One voice, women and men together, has long been my vision for tennis.