Tsitsipas weighs in on schedule issues: “We are on the edge of a tennis revolution”

Stefanos Tsitsipas believes tennis is “on the edge of a revolution” and that the players are in a position to make the changes needed to extend the careers of the top players.

The Greek said tennis needs to shorten the season, reduce the demands on top players and use technology to help players realise when they need to take a rest.

On the ATP Tour, the top players have to play a minimum of 18 events; the four Grand Slams, eight of the nine Masters 1000s and six others. Tsitsipas has already played 20 this year, including one Davis Cup tie, but he believes players can use their power to make the changes required.

“We’re on the edge of a tennis revolution, one driven by the players,” Tsitsipas said in an extended message on X.

“It’s no longer about just surviving the Tour; it’s about thriving in it. Change isn’t easy, but if we do this right, tennis could enter a new era of greatness. This is our chance to set the standard for player care and innovation. It’s about taking the game we love and making it better, for players, fans, and the future of the sport. The revolution is here, and it’s going to change tennis for the better.

“The Player Councils in the ATP and WTA are starting to voice these concerns, and the momentum for change is growing. With leaders like Novak Djokovic stepping in, the push for a more player-friendly schedule is gaining traction. We players know better than anyone what’s needed, and now we’re in a unique position to negotiate these changes.”

Shorter season, less travel

A number of leading players, including Carlos Alcaraz, have spoken out about the schedule, saying the demands of the Tour are simply too much to handle.

Tsitsipas says the nature of the Tour – flying all over the world, month to month – means players are stretched more than ever. The Greek pointed to injuries, mental health issues and general fatigue as reasons players are not at their peaks enough.

“Organisers, sponsors, and broadcasters are focused on filling stadiums and attracting viewers,” he said. “But what if we rethink this? There’s a real opportunity here to change the game for the better; to help players have longer, healthier careers, while still keeping fans excited.

“What if we moved from quantity to quality? Imagine fewer tournaments, but each one carrying more importance. It’s not about having a packed schedule; it’s about giving us players enough time to recover, so we’re always ready to give our best on the court. A rotating system for the smaller tournaments could be a solution. Instead of having us chase events around the world every week, tournaments could switch locations; one year in South America, the next in Asia.

“Shortening the season could also make a big difference. It’s not just about avoiding injuries; it’s about keeping players in the game longer. Less wear and tear means more years of top-level tennis, stronger rivalries, and better matches. And let’s face it, the fans want to see the top players competing at their peak.”

“We’re on the edge of a tennis revolution, one driven by the players. It’s no longer about just surviving the tour; it’s about thriving in it. Change isn’t easy, but if we do this right, tennis could enter a new era of greatness. This is our chance to set the standard for player care and innovation. It’s about taking the game we love and making it better, for players, fans, and the future of the sport. The revolution is here, and it’s going to change tennis for the better.”

Tsitsipas deleted his post a few hours later.

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