The Madrid Open has been selected as the first event to test a new format for the men’s doubles tournament which includes allowing more spaces for singles players to participate.
The ATP has revealed a series of initiatives that will be tested in the Spanish capital, as well as other events throughout the season, in a bid to ‘enhance the product for fans, players and tournaments.‘ One of the most notable moves is the decision to award 16 reserve slots for teams wishing to enter via their singles ranking. The hope is that some of the world’s best players in both singles and doubles will face off against each other in the event which could generate more interest.
However, the move is not without its downside for those ranked lower down the rankings in the doubles. These players will likely miss out on a place in the main draw of a Masters event which awards the highest amount of prize money and points outside of the four Grand Slams, as well as the ATP Finals.
“16 spots for singles players. Doubles specialists are about to lose their spot at a lot of events,” Women’s doubles world No.8 Ellen Perez commented on social media.
Other changes being introduced include the streamlining of the draw schedule to five days which will take place between Tuesday and Saturday during the second week of a Masters 1000 tournament. Furthermore, fans will be allowed to move around the court whilst play is taking place.
Another focus of the ATP is to increase the speed of matches. The shot clock, which is used to measure the time between points, will be cut to 15 seconds for rallies shorter than four shots. For rallies longer than this, the time will be increased to 25 seconds.
“Doubles has so much to offer fans and the atmosphere it can create when presented in the right way is phenomenal,” doubles world No.2 and ATP Player Advisory Council President Matthew Ebden said in a statement.
“That said, we as players recognise that more needs to be done to put our best foot forward. I’d like to commend my colleagues from across the ATP for taking this on and adding great new concepts into the mix. A lot of time, thought and care has gone into this process, and it’s been a privilege to play my part.”
The governing body of men’s tennis says their new trial was created following consultation with fans, broadcasters and stakeholders within tennis. A dedicated ‘doubles working group’ has been involved in the process which includes both player and tournament representatives and ATP staff.
Apart from Madrid, it is yet to be confirmed which other events this format will be trialled at. However, this will have no impact on the Grand Slams which independently govern themselves. This will also have no impact on the women’s doubles tournament taking place in Madrid.
