Players and officials shocked by Brad Drewett illness

Executive chairman and president of the Association of Tennis Professionals to step down

Brad Drewett, the head of men’s tennis, is to step down from his post after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease (AP)

Players and officials reacted with shock and sadness to the news that Brad Drewett, the executive chairman and president of the Association of Tennis Professionals, is to step down after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease, an incurable condition that damages the nervous system.

Drewett, a 54-year-old Australian who reached No 34 in the world rankings as a player, has made a big impression in his 12 months at the head of men's tennis, particularly in persuading Grand Slam tournaments to increase prize money.

Roger Federer, the president of the ATP player council, said Drewett had been "a central figure in helping to grow the ATP product across the globe".