Anti-corruption review launched after tennis match-fixing claims

An independent review into anti-corruption practices in tennis has been launched after claims of widespread match-fixing within the sport.

It comes after reports that 16 players who have been ranked in the top 50 had been repeatedly flagged to the sport's watchdog - the Tennis Integrity Unit (TIU) - over suspicions they had thrown matches in the past decade.

"The Independent Review Panel will review and report on the appropriateness and effectiveness of the tennis anti-corruption programme and make recommendations for change," the Association of Tennis Professionals, Women's Tennis Association, grand slam board and International Tennis Federation said in a joint statement.

The review, to be headed by Adam Lewis QC, will look at issues including transparency and resourcing at the TIU and how to extend the scope of tennis' anti-corruption education programmes.

Once complete, the report will be made publicly available.

"It is vital we repair the damage and do so quickly which is why we have decided to announce the review," Tennis Integrity Board chairman Philip Brook said. "We are determined to do anything we need to remove corruption from our sport."

Authorities previously defended the TIU and denied allegations it was under-resourced and did not have necessary enforcement powers.

They said they had put about $14 million (£9.7m) into their anti-corruption measures and successfully investigated and sanctioned 18 players, six of whom received life bans.

World number one Novak Djokovic revealed he was offered £140,000 to throw a match in 2007, while Andy Murray said tennis needs to be more proactive in talking about corruption.