ATP Plans Drastic Cut to Doubles Matches, Austria Protests
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) plans to drastically reduce the number of doubles matches starting in 2028.
- This proposed change has sparked debate and criticism within the international tennis community.
- The Austrian Tennis Federation has formally protested the ATP's decision.
Vienna, Austria โ A significant proposed change to the ATP Tour's structure is causing considerable discussion and opposition within the international tennis world. The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) intends to drastically cut the number of doubles tournaments and matches beginning in 2028, a move that has drawn sharp criticism.
While some might expect a united front from all professional tennis players against the halving of doubles opportunities, the reality is more complex. The article notes that the presence of doubles players utilizing training courts or physiotherapists can sometimes be a point of contention for some singles players. This underlying tension may influence the broader reaction to the ATP's proposal.
However, the Austrian Tennis Federation has declared its strong opposition to the planned reduction. Similar to other national federations, Austria is formally protesting the ATP's decision, signaling a significant rift between the tour organizers and national governing bodies.
The future of doubles as a competitive discipline on the ATP Tour appears uncertain under these proposed changes, raising questions about its viability and importance within professional tennis.
Originally published by Der Standard in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.