Alexander Bublik made a very radical proposal to the ATP authorities, telling them the 250 category should be pretty much removed because it doesn’t really bring that much money and the players don’t find it very interesting.
During an 11-month season, the majority of the main-level tournaments are ATP 250’s as there are 35 events in that specific category. The ATP calendar also includes 13 ATP 500 events – nine Masters tournaments – and the ATP Finals. Four Grand Slam tournaments are hosted by the ITF.
It is not a secret that top players have been critical of the ATP and WTA calendars over the last couple of years, with many arguing that it’s time to shorten it.
Now, Bublik is joining that conversation. And he has an idea how to make that work. According to the 27-year-old Kazakh, pretty much the only gain players can from have the 250 category are points because there are so many of those events. When it comes to money, those tournaments are not that profitable.
“I think we shouldn’t be playing ATP 250s when they pay the winner 50 grand, which we don’t even feel because our teams cost more in the week and to travel somewhere. I don’t think we need to play 250 events and the Challengers. So that’s the message to the guys. It makes no sense for us, after being five, seven years on tour, you don’t get a bunch of money,” Bublik told Express-Sport.
“Unless you want to make extra points which that’s what I’ve had. I think I didn’t play many 250s last year because I needed the points, I only went there for the points. In terms of money, we have to earn our living and 250s are not really interesting for players.”
Alexander Bublik© Rolex Paris Masters/Instagram – Fair Use
So far in his career, the 27-year-old has won four titles – he has three ATP 250 trophies and his lone title from the 500 category came in Halle last year.
Before Bublik, Daniil Medvedev also had one radical proposal
During last month’s ATP Finals, Medvedev spoke to reporters about the schedule and the changes he would make. When doing so, the 2021 US Open champion explained that he would have a calendar that would revolve around the Grand Slam and Masters tournaments.
In that scenario, the Russian some major tournaments would be moved to an earlier date and the ATP Finals would take place in October – not in late November. When it comes to the ATP 250 and 500 category, they would be moved to a slot later in the year and pretty much optional.
“I think somehow there should be, yeah, more bigger, important tournaments, which should be like, Okay, these are the tournaments where we define who is going to be top 10, like Masters 1000. You play good in them, you will be there… Yeah, the schedule should somehow be around them… If you’re good enough, you finish the season in whatever, October, play in Masters. Doesn’t matter. Don’t count the tournaments after,” Medvedev said.
ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi addressed the scheduling complaints
Over the weekend, Gaudenzi was asked about some of the complaints that have been made in regards to the calendar and schedule. Answering the question, the ATP boss suggested that some of the criticism doesn’t make sense because top players competing in exhibitions has become a normalcy.
Also, Gaudenzi noted that if the season were to be shortened, it would not be possible without reducing the number of ATP 250 events. Unless you are a top player, that probably would not be a good news to you.
“It’s not like football or basketball where they are employed by a club. Our players are self-employed and can decide their schedule. Yes, there is the ranking that makes them have to play, but it depends mainly on the big tournaments, the Grand Slams, the Masters 1000 and the ATP Finals. We decided to strengthen the Masters 1000, but in this new format, if you go to the final, you only play one more game compared to the old one,” Gaudenzi said.
“In addition, players choose to play many exhibitions outside the circuit. We don’t see that in other sports. The question is whether you want to invest in the circuit or outside the circuit. Reduce the season? Yes, but it will then be necessary to reduce the number of ATP 250 tournaments. Afterwards, players can also decide to do fewer exhibitions and spend more time at home to rest.”
For now, one thing is sure – the 2025 season will feature the same calendar.
Tennis World USA