John Lloyd has hit out against the ITF over the weekend, condemning their refusal to award ranking points to Davis Cup ties.

He believes that without some kind of practical reward, more and more players will follow the path trodden by Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal and become increasingly reluctant to play for their country.  Citing the mental and physical pressures that international ties place on players, Lloyd believes that changes have to be made in order to maintain the current standard of tennis in the competition.

Lloyd went on to support the complaints of Andy Murray, who has been vocal in his criticism of the organisation of Davis Cup ties in the past:

I think [Andy's] bi*ching about things he's got the right to bi*ch about. I think we have to compensate players with points.
It is rumoured that a points system will be introduced in 2009, but nothing has yet been finalised.

What do you think? Does the Davis Cup merit a points system? Take it to the forums!

How would they allocate the points.If your country plays in the world group would you earn more points than in the Europe/African Zone.I think it seems quite complicated. Also the timing of the Davis Cup.Nadal didn't represent Spain last year their tie with the US was just before the Clay Court season.I get the impression from Nadal&Federer it's the timing of the ties.Will this year be more complicated due to the Olympics?

I think they should award points.  It would help the lower ranked players get a few extra points too.