British No. 1 Jack Draper has urged the ATP Tour to modify its calendar, stating that players are pushing their bodies to “do things they aren’t supposed to in elite sport”.
This sentiment was echoed by Taylor Fritz after his victory over Novak Djokovic at the Six Kings Slam, a match that saw the 24-time major champion retire.
Draper, who was scheduled to participate in the exhibition tournament, ended his season prematurely following the US Open due to an arm injury.
His comments came shortly after Holger Rune suffered an injury during his Nordic Open semi-final, with his mother, Aneke, confirming to Danish newspaper BT that medical staff “are completely sure that it is a torn Achilles tendon.”
In a post on X, Draper stated: “Injuries are going to happen… we are pushing our bodies to do things they aren’t supposed to in elite sport.
“We have so many incredible younger guys on the tour right now, and I’m proud to be a part of that; however, the tour and the calendar have to adapt if any of us are gonna achieve some sort of longevity..”
Fritz responded an hour later, saying: “Facts, also seeing more injuries and burnout now than ever before because balls, courts, and conditions have slowed down a lot, making the weekly grind even more physically demanding and tough on the body.”
The American player also defended his position on the social media platform, especially after participating in an exhibition. “I’ve been saying the same thing my entire time on tour,” Fritz declared.
“I think it’s fair to say I grinded to make a career for myself, I didn’t magically get here. My opinion stays the same from when I was 20.
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“I understand the argument of playing Exos (exhibitions). But in most cases, barring the Laver Cup and the Six Kings Slam, it’s a 1/2 day event where it’s enjoyable just to play in a way that’s not physical and for entertainment with minimal physical stress and zero mental stress.”