ATP President and Executive Chairman Brad Drewett announced on Tuesday that he will be stepping down from his post due to an ongoing medical condition. Drewett disclosed during the second day of competitions at the Australian Open 2013 that he’s suffering from ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease. He added that he will still continue with his current role but on an interim basis while the ATP Board of Directors start the process of searching for his successor.
“It has been a privilege to serve as Executive Chairman and President of the ATP, an organization that I’ve been a part of for more than 35 years since I became a professional tennis player,” said Drewett.
“I hold the ATP very close to my heart, and it’s with sadness that I make the decision to enter this transition period due to my ill-health,” he added.
Drewett was a former professional tennis player who achieved a career-high singles ranking of 34. He took over the organization’s top post after former chief executive Adam Helfant stepped down at the end of 2011.
“Brad has become a good friend of mine over the years and this is very sad news for all of us at the ATP and the entire tennis community,” said Roger Federer, President of the ATP Player Council.
“He is well liked and respected by everyone and has done a tremendous job in leading the ATP over the past 12 months, overseeing some major initiatives and a record-breaking year in 2012. His dedication and service to the sport over the years has been truly admirable and he has been a central figure in helping to grow the ATP product across the globe. Our thoughts are with him and his family during this difficult time,” the 17-time Grand Slam champion added.
