Federer, Nadal cool to Cincy combined concept

Federer, Nadal cool to Cincy combined concept Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal remain cautious in their support for this week's new Cincinnati combined event, which throws a full WTA field into the mix at what was for years a dedicated ATP Masters 1000.

The tournament which grew up in a cornfield within sight of a busy motorway and surrounded by a a Midwest golf course, has now decided to try for the big-time by staging a combined event. While some expansion of facilities and courts has taken place, men player are wondering what's actually in it for them - save more logistical hassles. The concept has worked before, in the much larger spaces of Miami, Madrid and Indian Wells, where behind-the-scenes crowding is still a problem.

While the local tennis public may be keen, players are decidedly cautious. "Do all the players like the idea of having combined events?" asked four-time champion Federer.

"I doubt it, because it's very busy and it's hard to get the practise courts and there are many players complaining. But if it works for the fans and the media, we're happy to go through that. But I'm sure that the tournaments who have combined events have to keep on getting bigger and better."

Federer said it's the daily logistics in the opening days of the tournament which can become problematic. "There are a ton of players here and it's hard to manage. But so far it's been good, but let's see.

Nadal added: "It is not that good for the players themselves - though we love having women around. It's not a question of that, it's a question of courts, of space.

"I'm lucky, the tournament gives me 2 hours a day of practise court. But probably a lot of players are having problems."