World · Malaysia Bureau
Top doubles stars urge ATP to reconsider draw size cutbacks
Leading doubles players have called on the ATP to reassess plans to reduce doubles draws from 2028 onwards, with the governing body eyeing the move to redirect funding towards singles qualifying and early-round prize purses.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Association of Tennis Professionals is examining a significant restructuring of its doubles competitions, proposing smaller draw sizes as part of a broader financial reorganisation. The initiative aims to reallocate resources to bolster prize money for singles players competing in qualifying rounds and opening matches, areas the ATP views as requiring enhanced investment.
The proposal has drawn swift resistance from prominent doubles specialists who argue that reducing draw sizes would diminish opportunities for professional doubles players at a time when the discipline is already struggling to attract top talent. Players have expressed concern that further restrictions on doubles participation could undermine the viability of doubles careers and discourage emerging players from pursuing the format.
The ATP has framed the changes as necessary to maintain competitive balance and financial sustainability across its professional calendar. However, the doubles community contends that any restructuring should account for the specialist nature of doubles play and the limited tournament opportunities available to practitioners of the discipline.
The proposed changes are not scheduled to take effect until 2028, providing time for further consultation between the ATP, players, and other stakeholders. Whether the governing body will modify its approach in response to player concerns remains unclear, though the intervention by leading doubles players suggests the matter will continue to generate debate within professional tennis circles.