Jannik Sinner is among the star names taking on the China Open this week despite his criticism of the tennis schedule.
Sinner said in his China Open press conference that the season is long, but at the same time players can choose which events they want to play.
He certainly isn’t the first to speak out about the situation, with fellow world number one Iga Swiatek criticising the ruthless schedule.
But Swiatek said she wouldn’t be taking time off despite her worries, with the Pole believing it is hard to come back after a break.
Injuries and fatigue have been particularly present this year across the ATP and WTA, with Swiatek having just withdrawn from the China Open.
Tennis fans react as Jannik Sinner speaks out on tennis schedule
Emma Raducanu meanwhile retired from the Korea Open due to injury, while Ons Jabeur’s season is already over because of a shoulder issue.
Given his status, Sinner’s thoughts on the schedule have come under close analysis, with tennis fans seemingly split on his idea that players have all the freedom they want.
An angry fan wrote on X: “Just like his lack of expression I detect no compassion or understanding for others who don’t have his privilege.”
A second disappointed fan said: “Easy to say for Sinner when he has unlimited stamina, biggest strength and fastest recovery on the tour.”
A third fan had a similar opinion: “True, but this counts for top 10 players. If you are a ranked #60 to #100 player you need to play all the tournaments in order to keep that ranking. Sinner’s comments are not ill-intended, but there is another perspective.”
But there were many who took the Italian’s side, with fans saying: “Exactly he’s right. You don’t wanna play then you don’t. Simple as that,” and “If you win two slams, you can choose.”
Another was in agreement: “Finally, fully agree with Sinner. At the end, all players have a choice. I never heard Sampras, Agassi, Federer and Co complaining… probably, less social media or commercial assignments and focus on tennis.”
Will the ATP and WTA take action on the tennis schedule?
Sinner obviously has no money worries thanks to his phenomenal year, with the world number one having won six titles.
That includes the Australian Open and US Open, with further success very much on the cards before the year is over.
But others certainly don’t have the same privilege of being able to choose which events they play and which ones they miss.
Whether the powers that be hear the various thoughts of many players remains to be seen, but the schedule is likely to be at least analysed heavily given its constant attention.
The ATP and WTA should want the top players constantly playing at the highest level possible, which should mean not letting them become too fatigued or indeed too prone to injury.
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