'It's disappointing': Chengdu Open Director talks on Tiafoe, Jarry absences

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Chengdu Open won't feature Frances Tiafoe and Nicolas Jarry, who both committed to 2018 Laver Cup and then withdrew from the Chengdu Open. In an exclusive interview with Tennis World USA, the Tournament Director Luiz Carvalho admitted he was not happy to see that.

'It is disappointing', Carvalho admitted. 'We were expecting them to play. They took a calendar decision and for us it's hard to judge. There is no rule that does not allow them to do that. I just wishes that these players would be more collaborative to the Tour and think that they should support the Tour, and by supporting the Tour they are supporting themselves because if the Tour do well, it benefits prize money, there are better stadiums, more sponsors.

There is nothing we can do. The ATP is working hard with ITF, Kosmos group. We need to work together, that's the message that is important to carry in the same sport.' Carvalho feels that tennis in Asia is getting as popular as ever: 'A lot of players came up, not only Kei Nishikori but (Naomi) Osaka, a lot of junior players who are also coming here through a wild card.

Yibing Wu is a future star, world No. 1 junior, US Open champion, he plays with a wild card too. Kids were able to look up for the Asian top players such as Chung and to inspire them. The region's top players will help to develope the level of the sport', Carvalho said.

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