Emma Raducanu and Carlos Alcaraz have different views on the lengthy tennis calendar(Image: Getty)
The lengthy tennis schedule has been a huge talking point, with Carlos Alcaraz among those voicing concerns, but Emma Raducanu has her own views.
Emma Raducanu has insisted that the gruelling tennis schedule is not something “to complain about”, despite high-profile players criticising the relentless calendar. Carlos Alcaraz and Jack Draper are among those who have expressed concerns, as most Masters 1000 tournaments have been extended to last 12 days, with six mandatory 500-point events also on the WTA Tour.
Former US Open champion Raducanu played a whopping 50 matches this year – her highest in a single season – winning 28 of them, so she understands the strain of constantly competing on the tour.
However, the 23-year-old is keen to set a positive example for the next generation of tennis stars.
Raducanu explained: “Of course, the challenges of the tour, it’s getting longer. The weeks are longer, and I think more tournaments are mandatory, so many tournaments that we have to play are mandatory and longer.
“It’s not just the Masters, it’s also the 500s as well. I think that’s a challenge. I don’t necessarily think it’s something to complain about because it’s what we are given. And we are making a great living as well.
“I mean, it’s not all glamorous. There are definitely times when it’s very difficult and we are flagging mentally, physically, everything hurts. But at the same time, what are we going to do about it? I am sure there are certain people who go to work and their bosses make them do something, but they have to do it, it’s their job.”
Last year, world No. 1 Alcaraz voiced his concerns about the packed tennis calendar, stating that organisers were “going to kill us in some way”.
British ace Draper has also frequently expressed worries about the gruelling schedule leading to burnout and injuries. Iga Swiatek even confessed she might have to start missing some tournaments to ensure she gets a proper rest.
