ATP's Doubles Cuts Spark Unprecedented Player Backlash
Over 150 men's doubles players, including world number ones and legends, are fighting ATP proposals to halve draw sizes and reallocate $20 million in prize money from doubles to singles.
The ATP has proposed halving the doubles field at elite Masters 1000 tournaments from 32 teams to 16. The plan would also reallocate about $20 million in prize money from doubles to singles competitions. Smaller ATP 500 and 250 tournaments would see their draws reduced from 16 teams to just eight. The overall share of prize money for doubles could fall from 20% to 10% of the tour's total purse. These potential reforms are slated for a 2028 implementation.
More than 150 men's doubles players have urged the ATP to rethink the proposed changes. A coalition of 137 active players, 33 former stars, and 20 national federations signed an open letter to the ATP board and management. The letter states the players support progress but believe the proposed reforms go too far. British Wimbledon champions and world number ones Lloyd Glasspool and Julian Cash have accused the ATP of trying to kill part of the sport. Legendary duo Bob and Mike Bryan said they would support legal action to protect doubles, citing their 2005 lawsuit against the tour. Reigning Wimbledon champion Henry Patten said the players face an uphill battle but remain optimistic.
ATP Defends Commercial Rationale
The ATP defends its proposals with a data-driven analysis of costs, revenue, and viewership. Officials state that doubles attracts lower viewership and commercial revenue than singles outside of Grand Slams and the Olympics. They also note that few elite singles competitors regularly enter doubles draws, which strains tournament resources. ATP CEO Andrea Gaudenzi has stated that doubles would remain a key part of the ATP Tour. He said the review must ensure doubles' long-term sustainability, effectiveness for tournaments and fans, and support for players' development pathways.
Players Warn of Career Destruction
Dutch player and campaign architect Sem Verbeek warned the changes threaten the future of the discipline. "We're at risk of losing a discipline of tennis which is historic - but has a big future," Verbeek said. He argued the proposals would make it harder for players to build and sustain a career. The coalition stated a healthy professional sport needs pathways for players to develop, compete, and earn a living. Verbeek added that players want meaningful dialogue with the ATP on doubles development without harming participants' careers.
Stakes and Next Steps
Several meetings have already occurred between players and the ATP, including at the Shanghai Masters. The players are focused on fostering meaningful discussion and collaborative innovation. Bob Bryan stated in July that the tour is in its healthiest financial state ever and should be creating more opportunities, not fewer. The ATP board, including chairman Andrea Gaudenzi, will vote on the plans at the ATP Finals in Turin next month. That vote will determine whether these controversial reforms proceed.
