The rivalry between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz is intensifying ahead of their anticipated clash at the China Open. However, the focus isn’t just on their on-court competition, but also on Alcaraz’s recent criticism of the demanding tennis schedule. Alcaraz had expressed frustration, saying the packed calendar could “kill” players, reflecting growing concerns about burnout in professional tennis. As one of the busiest players on the circuit, Alcaraz’s comments resonated with many.
Sinner, however, offered a different perspective, advising that while the schedule is long, players can make choices about where and when to compete. He noted that some tournaments are mandatory, but it’s still possible to skip others for training or rest. Sinner himself has chosen to miss some events to focus on improving his game. Alcaraz, who has played 50 singles matches in 2024, admitted to feeling unmotivated at times due to the intense schedule.
Alexander Zverev also echoed similar frustrations, calling the tennis calendar unnecessarily long. After his loss at the Laver Cup, Zverev expressed his belief that players don’t get adequate rest and criticized the ATP for not considering player opinions, claiming that the sport prioritizes financial interests over athlete well-being. Despite these concerns, Sinner’s approach highlights the importance of making strategic decisions to manage both performance and personal development.
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