Isner hails Big 3's leadership; talks upcoming NFL draft participation

With ATP and WTA tournaments put on hold until at least July 13, uncertainty and financial stress is weighing on many players around the world. On Tuesday, John Isner opened up about ATP Player Council President Novak Djokovic's proposal letter that aims to generate more than $4 million as part of a Player Relief Fund.

"I'm on the player council. So, we were all on a conference call when that idea was proposed and it's something that the majority of players ranked in the Top 100 approve of," said Isner.

Djokovic's plan would see the Top 100 in singles and the Top 20 in doubles contribute based on a sliding scale. According to Djokovic's outline, the Top 5 would contribute $30,000 a piece and players ranked 6-10 would put forth $20,000, and so on.

The world No. 21 couldn't be happier to see the two tours working together to aid those most affected by the on-going virus. Isner also praised Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer for stepping up and leading the initiative.

"Of course, guys like Novak, Roger and Rafa, they're doing just fine," said Isner. "But, we all realize that the tour is more than just a handful of players and that we have to help everyone out."

During his appearance, it was announced the program's final details are being ironed out, with the ATP and WTA working alongside the ITF and controllers of the four Grand Slam events. The unified press release confirmed the sport's most powerful governing bodies would all contribute financially to the fund.

Isner, who is a dedicated sports fan, confessed he's missing watching his favorite teams in action. The 15-time ATP champion does however, have the unique opportunity to participate in the upcoming NFL draft with his favorite franchise.

"I've become good friends with Jordan Gross who's a former tackle for the Carolina Panthers for a long time and he works for the team. He asked me if I wanted to participate on a Skype call during the first round," said Isner.

The American will be joined by three-time NBA champion Stephen Curry among other celebrities during the Panthers' draft selections.