They both take up roles as part of the governing body's new player relations department, which will aim to strengthen the ITF's ties with athletes, coaches, agents, the tours and tournament organisers.

"Stubbs and Sa are both highly respected players who have enjoyed long and successful careers on court and will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to their new positions," an ITF statement said. 

"They will act as on-site representatives and the ITF's point of contact for players on tour."

Enhancing player relations is said to be a "priority" for ITF President David Haggerty.

France's Mary Pierce and Australian Mark Woodforde have already served as athlete members on the ITF's Board of Directors since 2015, as well as being co-chairs of the ITF's Athletes' Commission.

"The views of the players are very important to us, and Rennae Stubbs and Andre Sa will ensure a continuous line of two-way communication between players and the ITF," said Haggerty.

"With the creation of a player relations department and the appointments of Rennae and Andre, we will be in a much stronger position to share our vision with the players and to hear their views on the future of our sport.

"Rennae and Andre are ideal choices to serve as ITF player relations consultants. 

"Both have excelled in their tennis careers and both have the respect of their peers. 

"They will be our eyes and ears on the tour and provide invaluable feedback that will help the ITF enhance Davis Cup and Fed Cup by BNP Paribas, Olympic Games and other ITF events."

Forty-six-year-old Stubbs is a former number one in doubles, winning four Grand Slams in the women's discipline and two in the mixed.

She reached the Fed Cup final with Australia in 1993.

Forty-year-old Sa reached the quarter-finals at Wimbledon in 2002 and played in four Olympic Games, as well as the Davis Cup for Brazil.

"I am excited to embark on this important role with the ITF," said Stubbs. 

"I played 20 years on the tour and have a deep understanding of the issues that are most important to the players. 

"I embrace the opportunity to develop a strong line of communication between the ITF and the players. 

"One of the highlights of my career was representing my country in Fed Cup competition, something which I did 40 times. 

"I welcome the chance to help the Fed Cup continue to flourish and grow stronger."

Sa added: "I can't wait to begin this new opportunity. 

"My experience as a member of the ATP Player Council has given me insights into the workings of the sport and the feelings of the players on major issues. 

"I look forward to bringing the ITF and the players closer together. 

"Representing Brazil in Davis Cup was something I always felt passionately about, and I am keen to help the ITF and the players make the competition thrive."