Rafa Nadal and David Ferrer along with other high-profile figures in Spanish tennis have signed an open letter criticising their federation over the poor running of the sport in the latest development of an ongoing feud.

A total of 44 people put their name on Sunday to a seven-point statement that hit out at general poor organisation along with a lack of transparency by the Spanish federation (RFET).

It highlights the “chaotic” and “belligerent” way that the federation is led by president Jose Luis Esca-nuela and asks that the “authorities” take action to remedy the situation.

The letter comes on the back of claims that the nation’s first female Davis Cup captain Gala Leon offered her resignation following continued disapproval of her appointment last September, but it was not accepted by the federation.

Nadal was among those who reacted with disbelief at the RFET’s naming of Leon, to replace Carlos Moya.

It has led to accusations of sexism and Nadal admitted over the weekend that the controversy is tarnishing the image of Spanish tennis.

“The situation is terrible,” Nadal said ahead of Wimbledon.

“All these things that are happening cause damage to tennis, to the desire sponsors have to invest in our sport, to the excitement that kids might have in continuing to play.”

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