Iga Swiatek has an idea for why tennis is getting harder. The Pole attributes this to the rise in required ATP and WTA events, which is probably what’s causing the rise in injuries on the Tours.
Many ATP and WTA players expressed dissatisfaction throughout 2023, citing lengthy schedules and frequent ball changes as the primary causes of injuries. Players’ criticisms about the frequent modifications to the ball have decreased since 2024 began, but their complaints about the rigorous and lengthy program have not changed.
People started to wonder why the men’s event at the most recent Madrid Open was so plagued by injuries.
“Well, I believe that because we play quicker, sports are generally more difficult. Conversely, though, we’re mostly concerned with improving our physicality,” Swiatek said.
“It can sometimes lead to greater prevention. However, everyone possesses greater strength. Everyone is moving a little more smoothly now. Wins in matches are also more difficult.”
Swiatek: Mandatory events are increasing in number and length.
A few athletes in Madrid, Elena Rybakina and Caroline Garcia, voiced their opposition to the new two-week schedule. In stating their arguments, Rybakina and Garcia essentially implied that the players weren’t getting any benefit from Madrid being a two-week tournament.
Swiatek, the 2024 Madrid champion, added to the list of injuries that happened in the men’s event in Madrid by acknowledging that she didn’t have a clear explanation for why it happened but offering a possible explanation.
Comparing ATP tennis on clay versus hard is difficult for me. Actually, I’m not that skilled at dissecting things to figure out why they have injuries anymore. However, it could also be a coincidence since it occurred just a few days earlier. The duration of the events and all of these obligatory regulations, both on the ATP and WTA, have made the tour, in my opinion, increasingly challenging overall. “We’ll see what the future holds,” Swiatek remarked.
“For sure, scheduling-wise, the planning is going to be more important, sometimes even passing some tournaments that are important for you, for you to be ready for next one.”
Top ATP and WTA players are in action this week at the Rome Open, a two-week competition.
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