Ivanisevic Slams Grueling Tennis schedule: “Too Many Tournaments,Too Many Demands”
Former Wimbledon Champion Criticizes Late-Night Matches adn Packed Calendar
Former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic has strongly criticized the current state of professional tennis,focusing on the demanding schedule and late-night matches that have become increasingly common. His critique echoes similar sentiments expressed by other prominent figures in the sport, including Andy Murray, raising questions about player welfare and the overall quality of competition.
“Impossible”: Ivanisevic Laments Lack of Rest for Players
Speaking on a podcast in his native Croatia, Ivanisevic didn’t hold back. “What I don’t like in tennis now is too many tournaments,” he stated. “No sport is like tennis,where the year ends if you reach the Davis Cup final. You have Torino, masters in November, and by mid-December, you must go to Australia. How is that normal? It’s impossible. You need rest, prep for Australia.”
Ivanisevic, who famously won Wimbledon as a wildcard in 2001, highlighted the relentless nature of the tennis calendar, which leaves players with minimal time for rest and readiness between seasons.This, he argues, ultimately impacts their performance and longevity.
Matches Ending at 4 a.m.? “No Way You Will Be Ready,” Says Ivanisevic
The former coach of Novak djokovic also took aim at the increasingly late scheduling of matches.”Some matches last year ended at 4 a.m. 4 a.m.! No way you will be ready. You got to sleep, reach the hotel, and it’s 7-8 a.m. You sleep until 5 p.m. and must play tomorrow.”
He acknowledged that some changes are being implemented,but believes more needs to be done. “They have started changing things, but still. Matches can’t be played after 12. Too many tournaments, too many demands, it’s too much. Every week, two to three tournaments, every week something.”
Murray Rips “Amateurish” Scheduling
Andy Murray, a three-time Grand Slam champion, has also voiced strong opinions on the issue. Last year, he criticized the U.S. Open’s scheduling after matches ran until the early hours of the morning. He posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: “The tennis scheduling situation is a total mess. It looks so amateurish having matches go on at 2, 3, 4am. Sort it out.”
Wimbledon’s Curfew: A Model for Other Tournaments?
Wimbledon stands out as a tournament that avoids late-night finishes, with a strict curfew in place. This ensures that players get adequate rest and that fans are not expected to remain in the stands until unreasonable hours.
Call for Action: ATP and WTA Urged to Re-evaluate
With prominent figures like Ivanisevic and Murray speaking out, there is growing pressure on the ATP and WTA to address the issues of scheduling and tournament overload. Finding a balance that prioritizes player well-being and ensures a high quality of competition is crucial for the future of the sport.
What specific changes could the ATP and WTA implement to address player concerns regarding the tennis schedule?
Ivanisevic Slams Grueling Tennis Schedule: “Too Many Tournaments, Too Many Demands”
Former Wimbledon Champion Criticizes Late-Night Matches and Packed Calendar
Former Wimbledon champion Goran Ivanisevic has strongly criticized the current state of professional tennis, focusing on the demanding schedule and late-night matches that have become increasingly common. His critique echoes similar sentiments expressed by other prominent figures in the sport, including Andy Murray, raising questions about player welfare and the overall quality of competition.
“Impossible”: ivanisevic Laments Lack of Rest for Players
speaking on a podcast in his native croatia, Ivanisevic didn’t hold back. “What I don’t like in tennis now is too many tournaments,” he stated. “No sport is like tennis, where the year ends if you reach the Davis Cup final. You have Torino, masters in November, and by mid-December, you must go to Australia. How is that normal? It’s impossible. You need rest, prep for Australia.”
Ivanisevic, who famously won Wimbledon as a wildcard in 2001, highlighted the relentless nature of the tennis calendar, which leaves players with minimal time for rest and readiness between seasons. this, he argues, ultimately impacts their performance and longevity.
Matches Ending at 4 a.m.? “No Way You Will Be Ready,” Says Ivanisevic
The former coach of Novak Djokovic also took aim at the increasingly late scheduling of matches.”Some matches last year ended at 4 a.m. 4 a.m.! No way you will be ready. You got to sleep, reach the hotel, and it’s 7-8 a.m. You sleep until 5 p.m. and must play tomorrow.”
He acknowledged that some changes are being implemented, but believes more needs to be done. “They have started changing things,but still. Matches can’t be played after 12. Too many tournaments,too many demands,it’s too much. Every week, two to three tournaments, every week something.”
murray Rips ”Amateurish” Scheduling
Andy Murray, a three-time Grand slam champion, has also voiced strong opinions on the issue. Last year, he criticized the U.S. Open’s scheduling after matches ran until the early hours of the morning.He posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: “The tennis scheduling situation is a total mess. It looks so amateurish having matches go on at 2, 3, 4am. Sort it out.”
Wimbledon’s Curfew: A Model for Other Tournaments?
Wimbledon stands out as a tournament that avoids late-night finishes, with a strict curfew in place. This ensures that players get adequate rest and that fans are not expected to remain in the stands until unreasonable hours.
Call for Action: ATP and WTA Urged to Re-evaluate
with prominent figures like Ivanisevic and Murray speaking out, there is growing pressure on the ATP and WTA to address the issues of scheduling and tournament overload. Finding a balance that prioritizes player well-being and ensures a high quality of competition is crucial for the future of the sport.
Q&A: Unpacking the Tennis Schedule Controversy
Q: What specifically is Goran Ivanisevic criticizing?
A: Ivanisevic is primarily criticizing the excessive number of tournaments and the late-night scheduling of matches. He believes the current schedule leaves players with insufficient rest, impacting their performance and overall well-being. He’s also concerned about the short turnaround times between the end of the season (including the Davis Cup) and the start of the next season in Australia.
Q: Why is the late scheduling a problem?
A: Late-night matches (sometimes ending at 4 a.m.!) disrupt players’ sleep, recovery, and planning for their next match. This can lead to fatigue, increased risk of injury, and a decline in the quality of play. It also affects the fans who are expected to stay until these unreasonably late hours.
Q: How does Wimbledon differ from other tournaments?
A: Wimbledon is praised for its strict curfew, ensuring matches conclude at reasonable hours. This allows players to get adequate rest and recovery, setting a potential example for other tournaments.
Q: What are the ATP and WTA?
A: The ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) and WTA (Women’s tennis Association) are the governing bodies for men’s and women’s professional tennis,respectively. They are responsible for organizing tournaments, setting rules, and representing the interests of the players.
Q: How does this impact player longevity and performance?
A: The demanding schedule and lack of rest can lead to burnout, injuries, and a shorter playing career. Adequate rest and recovery are crucial for athletes to maintain peak performance over time. Did you know that Roger Federer, known for his longevity, often prioritized rest and recovery during his career?
Q: What can be done to improve the situation?
A: The ATP and WTA could consider reducing the number of tournaments, adjusting match schedules to avoid late finishes, and providing players with longer breaks between events and seasons. Prioritizing player well-being is key.
Q: Has anything changed?
A: The article mentions that some changes are being implemented, but Ivanisevic believes more needs to be done. this includes earlier start times for matches and stricter scheduling guidelines to avoid late nights.
The call for a more balanced tennis calendar is clear. Let’s hope the ATP and WTA take action to protect the players and the future of the sport!
