Tennis has a scheduling problem. That much is abundant.
After all, these are top-level athletes forced to perform incredible feats of physical and mental fortitude. Naturally, this is bound to have adverse effects eventually.
However, as is the case with almost all other sports, like football, rugby, basketball and more, there is a viable off-season that allows these supreme specimens to recharge.
Tennis players are barely afforded that luxury, with December as the only month where rest is permitted. Other than that, there is always a tournament to play.
Andy Roddick speaks about tennis’ scheduling problem
Speaking on the Served with Andy Roddick podcast, the former world number one spoke openly about tennis’ scheduling problem, which many top players have touched on.
And, one of the biggest commenters on this topic is the women’s world number two, only just knocked off her top-spot perch, with Iga Swiatek complaining about the tennis schedule more than most.
However, she is not alone in this complaint, yet is the only player of note to have actually put her frustration into practice.
Having missed all of the Asian swing thus far as she sought out a new coach, Andy Roddick noted: ‘Simply, Iga talks about being burnt out. A lot of people talk about how the tennis season is too long and then they add 17 exhibitions in the week before some other event. That’s their prerogative. I am never going to beat someone up for managing or mismanaging a schedule.
‘But it is nice when someone says here’s this big issue that we all talk about and I can pull back at this stage of my career. I don’t have to do it.
‘I like the fact that there seems to be a focus, whether it’s coaching or taking a break when you have to. I like that the long view seems to be the guiding factor right now for Swiatek.’
Complaining players need to practice what they preach
Carlos Alcaraz has also argued that the tennis calendar is too busy, yet as Roddick eludes to, was not too busy to fly to Riyadh to compete in the Six Kings Slam.
Naturally, the opportunity to compete for the biggest prize fund in tennis history is an honour few would deny, but if there is to be meaningful change, those with complaints must practise what they preach.
That is why Iga Swiatek will gather such praise, for being a woman of her word.
Perhaps Carlos Alcaraz, and Jannik Sinner too, could now follow in her path.
Receive exclusive tennis news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
