Court Confidential by Neil HarmanRelease: 27th May
With almost 40 years of experience as a journalist and over 11 years as The Times' tennis correspondent, Neil Harman certainly has more than a few stories to tell. Covering all the latest results, injuries and issues is part of the job description, however his latest move is far from it. Court Confidential: Inside The World Of Tennis provides an in depth experience into what happens behind the scenes in the world of tennis. The book guides us through the full 2012 season and the 2013 Australian Open with players, coaches and administration proving to be key areas. Dedicated chapters are given to the controversially ran LTA and also the burning issue of doping and whilst Harman refuses to shy away from contentious issues, he does understand the very tricky position he finds himself in. "Hopefully I've still got ten years left and you can't burn all your bridges so I've had to be careful. I've tried to tell the story as honestly as I can. "It is largely my opinion, it is my interviews, it is all my own work". What does make the release of this book so interesting is Harman's unique status in the game. The 2007 SJA Sports Reporter of the Year is often approached by high profile parties, including figures connected to Andy Murray's new management deal. "I've clearly been involved in discussions and conversations with people that I don't think other journalists have been in terms of how the sport is run. Harman also revealed media advice talks with Victoria Azarenka who came under fire for a lengthy medical time out in her 2013 Australian Open semi-final victory over Sloane Stephens. "She has asked my opinion on things and I have endeavoured to help her out. "She took on board what I said and I would like to think it has helped her". Alongside Azarenka, the release has also been supported by 11-time Grand Slam champion Rafael Nadal, Britain's Andy Murray and world number one Novak Djokovic, endorsements that Harman greatly appreciates. "For them to say the things they have said is extremely gratifying. "I didn't know what they were going to say, I had no say in what they said. I asked a few people if they would say something and those four responded". We at Net Talk Tennis look forward to seeing what Harman has to offer, you can order your copy at Amazon now. Follow Neil Harman on Twitter |
A great journalist and remarkable person who values the players and always promotes tennis in the best possible way with his avid appreciation and understanding of our sport.
Novak Djokovic I have got to know Neil all these years and like him personally but the most important thing is that he is a very well-informed journalist and is respected in all that he does. Rafael Nadal I see Neil not as a journalist, but as a huge part of the tennis world that makes our sport so valuable. Victoria Azarenka Despite his poor taste in shirts, his journalism has earned him many awards and the respect of players; his longevity in the game speaks for itself Andy Murray |