Tennis: Tournament schedule continues to be the focus of criticism

“The ATP is not interested in our opinion.” “It’s a money business,” said the world number two from Germany, pointing out that tennis players have had the longest season in the sport. “There is no time to rest. There is no time to prepare the body and build muscle,” said Zverev. For most professionals, the season begins right after Christmas with the United Cup in Australia and lasts until the Davis Cup finals at the end of November.

“We come back from vacation and start tennis training straight away because we have to play in Australia in two or three weeks,” complained Zverev. The issue of strain is also being discussed in football right now, after Manchester City star Rodri initiated the debate and even did not rule out a strike. “We are not allowed to strike. We will be fined if we do not play the tournaments,” stressed Zverev.

In addition to the four Grand Slam tournaments, the Masters 1000 events are confirmed for the players. For him, playing fewer tournaments is not an option, said Zverev, explaining: “If you are an ambitious young person who feels like you have not yet achieved everything, that is not an option.” The tour will then continue without you.”

Alcaraz predicts more injuries

Alcaraz is also not happy with the current situation. The French Open and Wimbledon winner predicts that there will be more injuries in the future: “At some point, many good players will miss a lot of tournaments because they have to think about their bodies.” The world number three played 50 professional matches this year before the Laver Cup, winning 41 of them.

“It’s difficult. Sometimes I’m not motivated at all. The calendar is so tight and there are far too few days off. “I’ve had the feeling a few times that I didn’t want to travel to a tournament at all, I would have much preferred to stay at home with my family and friends,” said Alcaraz.

Mystery surrounding Zverev’s health

While the Spaniard is fit, many are worried about Zverev’s health. The German said that he has had a fever for four days and is not feeling well, but he and his management did not disclose any details. “That is a private matter,” said brother Mischa Zverev.

Zverev’s fitness has been a mystery for weeks. He failed in the quarter-finals at the Olympic Games, complained of dizziness and reported that he had seen four balls at times. He was also ill when he was knocked out in Montreal and was coughing heavily. According to Zverev, blood tests have not provided any clarity as to the cause of his symptoms. On Saturday, the doctor had to come onto the court in the middle of the second set in Berlin’s Uber Arena when he lost his duel with Ben Shelton. Zverev’s cough could be heard throughout the arena at times. “My heart rate was pretty high,” reported the 27-year-old.