Nikolay Davydenko cleared by ATP in tennis betting probe

Nikolay Davydenko has been cleared of any involvement in match-fixing after a year-long investigation by the governing body of men's tennis (ATP).

The Russian drew suspicion by the manner of his shock defeat to Martin Vassallo Arguello at the Sopot Open in August 2007.

"The ATP can confirm that it has concluded its investigation and found no evidence of a violation of its rules by either Mr. Arguello or Mr. Davydenko or anyone else associated with the match," a statement read.

"The ATP has now exhausted all avenues of enquiry and the investigation is now concluded."

Davydenko has always maintained his innocence over the affair, claiming that a foot injury was behind his dismal performance and retirement.

However, nearly $7 million was placed on Arguello to win the match on Betfair alone, despite his world ranking of 87.

The amount is 10 times the usual amount for a similar-level match and the online betting company took the unprecedented step of voiding all bets on the match.

Most of the money was on Argentine player Arguello, even after the then world number 87 lost the first set.


(source Associated Press, photo/ALIK KEPLICZ/AP Photo)