Thursday 31 October 2019 17:30, UK
Gerard Pique has revealed he wants to expand the Davis Cup finals to a two-week event featuring 24 teams.
The first edition of the controversial new format, which will see 18 teams play for the trophy over a week, takes place next month at Madrid's Caja Magica.
Barcelona defender Pique's Kosmos company has provided huge financial backing for the event and persuaded the International Tennis Federation to adopt the plans despite vociferous opposition from some players and fans.
Pique and the ITF are hoping to move the event from its current position in the calendar, and the Spaniard has now revealed the intention is also to expand it.
He told Cadena SER: "It is a long-term project. It's the tennis world cup and the idea is, over time, to go to a two-week competition and 24 teams."
Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic headlined a generally strong list of team selections announced last week.
The standout absentee is Roger Federer, who has engaged in something of a long-distance war of words with Pique since the footballer became involved.
Pique at one stage indicated organisers wanted the slot in the calendar in September occupied by Federer's Laver Cup, which had its third edition this year.
Asked if he had thought of calling Federer, Pique said: "No, I've always wanted to respect the process.
"First we talked with his agent about the possibility of Switzerland [playing] in 2020. He said he would send a formal letter to Roger. They sent us the letter and we were surprised by its contents.
"They see the Davis Cup as a little competition compared to his competition. I don't know if he will play in the Davis Cup one day, but we are delighted with all the players who do come to it."
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