World number one Novak Djokovic has clarified comments he made appearing to suggest that male players should be paid more than their female counterparts.
In the wake of winning a record fifth Indian Wells title, Djokovic was asked to comment on tournament director Raymond Moore's claims that the WTA "rides the coat-tails" of the men's game.
Djokovic's subsequent answer has been questioned by a number of female players, including Serena Williams, but the Serbian has insisted that he was arguing for better pay across the board rather than suggesting that there should be disparity between genders.
"As you may have seen, I was asked to comment on a controversy that wasn't of my making. Euphoria and adrenaline after the win on Sunday got the best of me and I've made some comments that are not the best articulation of my view, and I would like to clarify them," he said in a statement on Facebook.
"As you all know, I care deeply about the future of the game and all of the players. Tennis helped me so much in my life and being where I am today, I felt the need to speak about the fairer and better distribution of funds across the board - this was meant for both men and women. We all have to fight for what we deserve. This was never meant to be made into a fight between genders and differences in pay, but in the way all players are rewarded for their play and effort.
"Tennis is a sport that I love and that gave me the opportunity to help others who still have a long way to go to achieve their dreams. This was my view all along and I want to apologize to anyone who has taken this the wrong way."
Moore has since apologised for his comments and resigned from his role at Indian Wells.
Barney Corkhill
