ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi defends his decision to extend the days for Masters-1000 despite criticism from the likes of Andy Murray and Cameron Norrie

This initiative is a part of ATP's 'OneVision' plan which is aimed towards taking tennis to new heights.

ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi defends his decision to extend the days for Masters-1000 despite criticism from the likes of Andy Murray and Cameron Norrie

Andy Murray, Andrea Gaudenzi, Cameron Norrie. (Credit: LTA, ATP Tour and Sky Sports)

ATP Chairman, Andrea Gaudenzi has rigidly defended the decision to extend the Masters-1000 tournaments from 8 days to 12 days. The decision was met with criticism from certain players, such as Andy Murray and Cameron Norrie. But Gaudenzi there are more advantages of this decision rather than drawbacks.

The decision to extend the length of the events was accompanied by an increase in the number of players who will participate in those tournaments. The players’ number has increased from 56 to 96. This new rule is a part of ATP’s ‘OneVision’ plan. This new initiative is aimed at taking the game of tennis to new heights.

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Miami Open and Indian Wells are some of the tournaments that have been going on for two weeks for several years. Currently Shanghai Open, which is being held in China, will function under this new scheduled planning. During the clay court season, Rome and Madrid were such tournaments that followed this new schedule.

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Some tour players, notably former World No. 1 Andy Murray, have expressed worry over the shorter time between tournaments. Cameron Norrie has noted the possible drawbacks for lower-ranked players, predicting fewer playing opportunities following early-round exits.

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Andrea Gaudenzi waives off the concerns of the players.

Andrea Gaudenzi, currently in Shanghai to mark 25 years of pro tennis in the region, brushed aside concerns. He believes players will adapt to the longer season. He pointed out that while it’s longer for those who reach the end of tournaments, it’s similar for early-round exits. Gaudenzi highlighted the positive: now, players have a day off between matches, which is good for their health.

Andrea Gaudenzi.
Andrea Gaudenzi. (Via Tennis.com)

While he acknowledged the challenges of a busy schedule and more time on the road, Gaudenzi argued that the health benefits outweigh the drawbacks. He emphasized the importance of Masters tournaments and the need for them in China.

Notably, due to COVID-19, China hasn’t hosted any ATP tournaments in recent years. The WTA also canceled events amid controversy involving former player Peng Shuai, who accused a former government official of sexual assault, leading to suspicions of censorship.

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