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Chris Evert has claimed Novak Djokovic's controversial comments about equal pay were “cultural” - and an American player would not make them.

The men's world No 1 met Evert and Billie Jean King in Miami on Wednesday after apologising for claiming on Sunday that men deserved to be paid more than women.

The Serb later claimed it was “an honour” to talk to two giants of the game who have fought for equality.

And speaking at a press conference, 18-time Grand Slam winner Evert said: “I think a lot of the comments are cultural, too. I doubt you hear that as much from the American men's tennis players and I'm sort of applauding the Americans for that.

"I think the Europeans later on took a cue from the Americans and I think Americans accepted equality on a lot of different levels earlier than Europe did."

Andy Murray, who employs female coach Amelie Mauresmo, has already condemned Djokovic.

(Image: WireImage)

And his mother Judy Murray said: “I do believe that when you have men and women playing in the same event, it is great for the sport, it is great for the fans, it is a much better buzz about it and I do believe in those situations, the women should be paid the same as the guys.

"But what is more interesting for me is the issue of more equality throughout our sport further down the line: more girls playing, more women in decision-making positions within governing bodies, more women coaches and journalists in order to promote our sport and grow the female's side of the game.”

Djokovic said he had spoken to Andy Murray as well as Serena Williams, Caroline Wozniacki and Ana Ivanovic in a damage-limitation exercise.

"I never had any intention to offend them or come up with any negative connotations,” insisted the Serb. “I don’t make any differences between the genders. I am for equality in the sport.”

The world No 1 will face Kyle Edmund in the Miami Masters on Friday.