The two-time champion of major tennis tournaments expressed the need for a revision of the schedule and proposed that reducing the number of obligatory competitions could be a possible solution.
Numerous players and analysts have consistently argued that the professional tennis season is excessively lengthy, commencing in January and continuing until November, thereby allowing players only a brief off-season.
Following her appearance in the final of the Abu Dhabi Open last week, Daria Kasatkina shed light on the calendar-related issues. The 13th-ranked player in the world criticized the scheduling of the WTA tour, as it left her with minimal time before the WTA 1000 event in Doha this week.
“I am uncertain how one can plan the tournament’s finals on a Sunday, with the desire to conclude the subsequent tournament on a Saturday, thus commencing it on a Sunday. Consequently, players like myself, who do not have a bye in Doha, are compelled to play on Monday. Moreover, I will be playing the finals tomorrow at 5pm,” the 26-year-old stated during a press conference.
“We have not yet achieved the technological capability for me to instantaneously transport myself to Doha in a matter of seconds. I have a question, directed at either the WTA or the tournaments themselves: Are you intentionally trying to push players to their limits or increase the likelihood of frequent injuries?
“Considering that I may have to fly on Monday and immediately step onto the court, after having played five matches here at the highest level, it is a matter that must be addressed and taken into consideration.
“We are not merely players, but also human beings who strive to perform our jobs to the best of our abilities. However, under the current circumstances, it is far from easy. I hope that this issue will be brought to the attention of the appropriate individuals. Please note that I am not complaining, but rather stating the facts, which clearly indicate that this situation is impossible and cannot persist.”
In an interview with Elo, Alcaraz was questioned about the duration of the tennis calendar and argued that the present structure is detrimental to the physical well-being of players.
“It is excessively demanding. For instance, if you commence your season with the first tournament of the year, you are already departing from home on either December 25 or 26, and the season does not conclude until the beginning of the subsequent December,” stated the second-ranked player in the world.
“It is nearly a year without any respite from participating in tournaments and embarking on tours. The demands are excessive, with numerous mandatory tournaments throughout the year. I am unsure if a solution exists, but perhaps reducing the number of obligatory tournaments would be beneficial.
“Honestly, I am uncertain, but it is evident that the calendar is excessively lengthy and demanding, ultimately jeopardizing the athletes’ well-being due to prolonged periods of competing at the highest level, tournament after tournament. This is a situation that necessitates change.”
According to the Source tennis365.com