One of New Zealand's leading players has voiced growing concerns for the future of tennis in this country.
Newshub has learned new regulations around rankings will mean Kiwis won't be offered the chance to play at next year's ASB Classic, leading to claims of a lack of accountability and support, but the governing body denies this and insists opportunities are being presented.
In 2019, Rubin Statham shocked the tournament by toppling world No.25 and Australian Open semi-finalist Hyeong Chung from South Korea, but that may be his last victory at his home tournament.
"I just don't think it's good all round," he told Newshub.
New regulations made by Tennis NZ mean only those ranked in the top-300 can enter the summer of tennis. Current standings mean Kiwi players won't make it.
"They know that currently our players aren’t ranked within that number, so it’s a good way, on paper, to exclude Kiwi players," said Statham, 35.
That decision isn't Statham's only issue with the national body - he believes there's a a lack of accountability, support, communication and contribution.
"I've seen for two decades, our top players, results in two outcomes," he said. "Either they quit tennis, or they move and play for another country."
Or in Statham's case, refuse to play - he sat out last month's Davis Cup tie against Finland.
"When you have hard evidence of players quitting tennis, mentally not being happy, then going off and playing for other countries, coaches leaving... someone has to stand up and say something."
Tennis NZ chief executive Julie Paterson wouldn't appear on camera, but has emailed Newshub, insisting the organisation is accountable, supports and develops players, and has a clear communication framework.
As for ASB Classic regulations, Paterson says qualifying wildcards remain an option for Kiwi players.
Statham's not giving up, but believes change needs to occur first.
What that looks like though, remains to be seen.
