A large coalition consisting of 137 active players, 33 former professionals, and 20 tennis federations has formally requested that the ATP Tour reconsider proposed structural reforms. The group acknowledged the necessity of periodic evolution within the sport but expressed deep concern regarding planned shifts to the doubles format, arguing that the changes would negatively impact professional opportunities. According to in a letter addressed to the ATP board and management and signed by 137 active players, 33 former players and 20 federations, the group, It understood the need for reforms but was deeply concerned about the plans. That shift would make it much harder for talented players to build and sustain a doubles career. Reuters has contacted the ATP for comment.
Under the discussed proposals for 2028 and beyond, the ATP plans to reduce the size of doubles draws, notably cutting teams at elite Masters 1000 events from 32 to 16, with smaller fields for lower-level tournaments. The governing body intends to redistribute approximately $20 million in prize money from doubles to enhance singles qualifying and early-round compensation. This broader financial restructuring aims to increase the total player compensation package to $350 million and raise the bonus pool to $50 million, up from $21.5 million.
Critics, including world number 60 Sem Verbeek, have voiced their opposition to these cuts. Verbeek emphasized on social media that tennis should prioritize the interests of all members rather than functioning solely as a business. He noted that the sport is a legacy defined by sportsmanship and health, arguing that the governing body should focus on opening doors for athletes to sustain their careers rather than restricting them. Not close them, a sport built on those values should open doors.
The group’s letter highlights that the current model is vital for maintaining a healthy professional ecosystem, noting that a sport cannot thrive if it relies exclusively on a small group of top-ranked singles stars. By limiting the pathway for doubles specialists to compete and earn a living, players fear the long-term sustainability of the format will be severely compromised. Doubles receives much less attention than singles and few top singles players commit to playing the format, though it is hugely popular at club level, apart from the Grand Slams and Olympic Games.
The ATP has maintained that it views doubles as a core component of the tour and stated that its ongoing reviews aim to identify a sustainable future model. The organization plans to continue discussions with the Player Advisory Council ahead of year-end meetings scheduled for next month in Turin.
