Tennis Scheduling Reform
The call for reform within tennis scheduling is growing, with notable figures like Daniil Medvedev expressing concerns about match timing. For several years, players have voiced dissatisfaction over various aspects of their competition timetable. Complaints range from the overall duration of the season, which spans from late December to November, to the increasing length of ATP and WTA 1000 events. Additionally, players have different preferences regarding match timings—some are averse to early morning games, while others dislike the prospect of late-night matches.
Player Frustrations
Russian player Karen Khachanov articulated a common frustration among athletes in tennis, comparing it unfavorably with other sports such as ice hockey, American football, soccer, and even basketball, volleyball, and baseball. In these sports, professionals typically know their entire season’s schedule in advance, allowing for better planning and preparation.
“In tennis, this is the toughest part,”
Khachanov pointed out. Athletes must constantly adjust to changing circumstances, which can be difficult compared to the fixed schedules in other sports.
Challenges of Match Scheduling
Tennis is particularly challenging when it comes to scheduling matches, primarily due to the unpredictable nature of match durations, which can range from half an hour to several hours, especially during Grand Slam tournaments. Additionally, inclement weather can lead to the postponement of matches, with organizers often striving to conclude as many matches as possible within a limited time frame. This urgency results in early start times, often at 11 a.m., which many players find unappealing.
Player Perspectives on Early Matches
Alexander Bublik has previously remarked on the absurdity of such early matches, a sentiment echoed by Medvedev. The Russian player suggested that he might refuse to compete in morning matches later in his career, laughingly claiming he could simply opt out by saying he didn’t wake up.
“I was talking to my team today. I was like: ‘When I’m 35, I might just boycott the 11am matches.’ I’ll be like: ‘I’m not coming. Walkover.’ Like: ‘Yeah, I didn’t wake up. Sorry, guys.’ In my opinion, 11 is so early. You have to wake up at 6:30 in the morning, whereas if you play at night, you wake up at 9 a.m. So it alters the match’s perspective. It’s crazy mentally.”
Current Status of Daniil Medvedev
Currently, however, Medvedev is not in a position to be selective about his matches. After a period of inconsistent performance, the former World No. 1 now occupies the 13th spot in the global rankings. As he heads into the US Open, Medvedev hopes to find his rhythm again and make a significant impact, reflecting on his past triumphs at the tournament.
