Currently, there is intense controversy about the tennis schedule, with some of the top players in the world participating.
In a startling departure from the opinions of the majority of his peers, the men’s world number one has now spoken his opinion on the matter.
Typically, the argument goes something like this: these athletes are expected to perform year-round with little to no respite, which is far too much.
However, Jannik Sinner has made an opposing argument.
Jannik Sinner enters the argument about the tennis schedule.
Before this week’s China Open, Sinner gave media a sneak peek at his comeback to tennis after a well-earned break following his US Open victory.
After winning his second Grand Slam of the year, he was present to support his colleagues but missed the Davis Cup. He declined to compete in the Laver Cup as well.
The Italian, who is the most recent player to be questioned about the ever-expanding tennis schedule, actually talked a lot about this decision to take such a break.
He adopted a different stance on the subject, observing that “the schedule is quite long these days.” We still have the option as players to decide what to play and what not to play.
Yes, there are some occurrences that are required of us. As the player, you still have options. This year has a packed program with numerous tournaments. Participating in a tournament is not required. You can play if you so choose. You don’t play if not.
For instance, I skipped a few events both this year and previous because I wanted to practice. This is the result of various decisions. Yes, the season is lengthy overall, so things aren’t always simple.
Jannik Sinner challenges Iga Swiatek and Carlos Alcaraz.
Sinner has acknowledged the scheduling problems to a near extent, although his statements contradict what Iga Swiatek and Carlos Alcaraz have both stated recently about the calendar’s operations.
Since his present plan is so relentless, the former member of that partnership said that he enjoys playing some tournaments more than others, but he regrettably does not have the time for them anymore.
As Swiatek criticized the packed tennis schedule, the world number one for women even hinted that she would need to take a sabbatical to manage her workload.
Sinner is partially correct, but it’s understandable why they are dissatisfied given that the top players have so many required tournaments to attend throughout the year in addition to any beneficial extras they may like.
John McEnroe’s plea for players to abstain from Grand Slam competitions in order to bring about significant change is therefore not surprising.