Alexander Zverev has reacted to Roger Federer’s comment that players like him need to plan their scheduling better by saying he has the support of the current world No.1.
Earlier this week the world No.5 said the 11-month season on the men’s tour was ‘ridiculous.’ Arguing that he hasn’t ‘been feeling his best’ as a result of it. Under its current structure, the ATP Tour takes place between January and November with a total of 63 events taking place (based on the 2019 schedule).
Following his win over Kevin Anderson at the ATP Finals on Thursday, Federer was asked his view about the length of the tour. Disagreeing with Zverev’s point by saying that the most important factor is the management of players schedule. In recent years Federer has opted to skip the clay season in order to rest.
“There are two ways to look at it. One, it’s nice that there are so many tournaments. When you get injured, not like skiing, you’re going to miss the entire season.” Federer told reporters in London.
“The other way, it would be amazing to have five months to work on your game. You could really maximize the player you are, the potential you have. Obviously, with the little time we have, there’s only so much you can do.”
“I just think you have to be very disciplined within the team to decide what’s best for that player, and the player needs to also give his opinion.”
Reacting to Federer’s claims, Zverev has responded by saying that the Swiss player doesn’t have as many obligations due to his age. Although during his early 20s Federer played 80 or more competitive matches per season. In 2003 he played 95 at the age of 22. To put that into context, Zverev has played 74 this season.
Number of matches played by Federer (born 8/8/81) between 2000-2005
2000 – 66
2001 – 70
2002 – 80
2003 – 95
2004 – 80
2005 – 85
“Roger is older, so he has different rules from the ATP. He can skip two Masters Series. He doesn’t have to play all the 500 events. I have to play all the four Grand Slams, all the nine Masters events, and I have to play four 500 events outside of that. Actually, I even played a 250 event as well.” Zverev said in response.
The 21-year-old continued to defend his stance by stating that his view is supported by Novak Djokovic. The current world No.1 and a key member of the ATP Players’ Council.
“I had this conversation with Novak, he agrees with me.” Claims Zverev. “He’s been thinking the same way for the past 10 years but he’s never really talked about it. Now that players are coming through about the subject, he’s also more vocal about it.’
“We don’t have time to prepare, so the body, mental-wise, also we don’t have time to give ourselves rest.”
Asked the length of break he would like, Zverev gave an estimate of eight weeks. One he would split evenly between practicing tennis and working out.
At the ATP Finals, Zverev will play Federer in the semi-finals on Saturday. He trails their head-to-head 2-3.
