Novak Djokovic has apologised foWilliamfence he caused with his remarks about men's tennis players deserving more prize money than
their female counterparts.
The World No 1 posted a statement on Twitter and Facebook on Tuesday night but did not retract his opinion.
The 11-time Grand Slam champion has been widely criticised for what he said in the wake of his victory over Milos Raonic at the Indian Wells Master final on Sunday.
Asked to react to sexist comments by the tournament director Raymond Moore, Djokovic said ATP players should make more prize money than their WTA counterparts.
Moore has since resigned and said sorry for claiming female players should be grateful to the likes of Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal for carrying the sport.
Djokovic has attempted to calm the situation, saying: "I was asked to comment on a controversy that wasn't of my making.
"Euphoria and adrenalin after the win on Sunday got the best of me and I've made some comments that are not the best articulation of my view.
"I would like to clarify them. As you all know, I care deeply about the future of the game and all of the players.
"Tennis helped me so much in my life. Being where I am today, I felt the need to speak about the fairer and better distribution of funds across the board - this was meant for both men and women.
"We all have to fight for what we deserve. This was never meant to be made into a fight between genders and differences in pay, but in the way all players are rewarded for their play and effort.
"Tennis is a sport that I love and that gave me the opportunity to help others who still have a long way to go to achieve their dreams.
"This was my view all along and I want to apologise to anyone who has taken this the wrong way."
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