I believe the ATP needs to protect the defending champions...

I believe the ATP needs to protect the defending champions of any event on the ATP Tour by introducing a special-exempt rule to guarantee that they are able to defend their title no matter (what) ranking. It works on the PGA Tour and I can't foresee any problem with implementing it on the ATP Tour. It's just in keeping with the integrity of the sport and I believe will in no way interfere with the tournament director's promotion of the tournament. It may even be of benefit.