ATP president Brad Drewett has died at the age of 54

ATP president Brad Drewett has died at the age of 54 following a long battle against motor neurone disease.

"The ATP is deeply saddened to announce that Brad Drewett passed away at his home in Sydney, Australia, earlier today," said a statement from the governing body of men's tennis.

"Brad, who served as ATP executive chairman and president since January 2012, had been suffering from motor neurone disease.

"Our thoughts are with Brad's family on this extremely sad day for them, the ATP and the entire international tennis community. He will be sorely missed by all."

The Australian former professional, who reached a career-high ranking of 34, was appointed ATP president in January 2012 and helped oversee a rise in prize money at grand slam tournaments and a streamlining of the men's calendar.

He announced in January that he intended to step down due to his battle with the neurological disease.