May 21, 2008	Wednesday	Jamadi-ul-Awwal 15, 1429

PARIS, May 20: Forty-five tennis matches played in the last five years are under investigation as part of a major inquiry into betting in the sport, it was revealed on Monday.

The review, led by two former Metropolitan Police corruption-busters, is examining unusual betting patterns in the matches and has recommended to tennis’s three ruling bodies to implement radical changes to stamp out the problem.

“The review identified 45 professional tennis matches played in the past five years that had unusual betting patterns that require further review to ascertain if they affected the integrity of professional tennis or if there were other tennis reasons for the outcome of the matches,” said the report.

The inquiry has been led by experienced investigators Jeffrey Rees and Ben Gunn.

Rees established the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) anti-corruption unit, while Gunn led a group to examine the integrity of the British horse racing industry.

Although the report found that “professional tennis is neither systematically nor institutionally corrupt...or that no evidence of a link to organised crime exists”, the four Grand Slams, the International Tennis Federation (ITF), ATP and WTA Tour say they will introduce the recommendations.

“We applaud the governing bodies for taking bold and decisive measures to meet the challenges they face,” said Gunn.

“Their decision to accept the recommendations outlined, underpinned by an agreement to introduce a uniform Anti-Corruption Programme, will help to maintain and enhance the integrity of a global sport enjoyed by millions.”

Rees added: “The findings of this Review clearly demonstrate the need for having an Integrity Unit. The aim to rid any uncertainty or implication of corruption in tennis is fundamental to the reputation and future standing of the game and is fully supported by all international tennis bodies.”—AFP