Tennis Players Protest ATP Doubles Prize Money Cuts
137 players, 28 legends, and 28 national federations sign an open letter opposing ATP's 2028 reform plans to slash doubles prize money to 10%.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- 137 players and 28 legends sign open letter opposing ATP reforms
- Proposals aim to halve doubles draws and cut prize money to 10%
- ATP board to vote on the controversial plans at next month's ATP Finals
- Legendary Bryan brothers back potential legal action to protect discipline
Professional male tennis players have launched a collective protest by penning an open letter to the Association of Tennis Professionals, pushing back against sweeping reform proposals slated for 2028 that would drastically downscale doubles draws and slash prize money. The coordinated push features signatures from 137 active players, 28 tennis legends, and 20 national federations, all urging the governing body to reconsider the controversial restructuring plans.
Under the ATP proposals, the size of doubles draws at flagship Masters 1000 events would be cut in half down to 16 teams, while smaller tournaments would shrink to just 8 teams. Furthermore, the percentage of prize money allocated to doubles is projected to drop from 20% down to 10%, with the surplus funds being redirected to singles players. The planned changes have triggered an angry backlash from the doubles community, who argue the overhaul threatens their livelihoods.
Identical twins Mike and Bob Bryan, widely regarded as the greatest doubles pair in tennis history, voiced their backing for the group, indicating support for potential legal action to safeguard their discipline. Back in 2005, the American brothers spearheaded a player lawsuit against the ATP when the organization previously attempted radical changes to doubles. British players Lloyd Glasspool and Julian Cash, who claimed the Wimbledon title in 2025 and rose to world number ones, also blasted the ATP for attempting to dismantle a vital segment of the sport.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
"These proposals would destroy careers, livelihoods and dreams."
Professional Tennis Players
The ATP defended its proposals by stating they are rooted in data-driven analysis focusing on operational costs, revenue streams, and viewership metrics. Tour executives argue that with fewer singles competitors entering doubles draws, standalone doubles events place an unsustainable strain on tournament operations. The ATP board—consisting of chairman Andrea Gaudenzi, four tournament representatives, and four player representatives—is scheduled to vote on the package at next month's ATP Finals in Turin, Italy.
This ongoing friction highlights a fundamental clash between commercial optimization and the preservation of sporting diversity. While governing bodies focus on streamlining broadcast schedules and boosting single-player revenue, critics point out that doubles formats remain the most relatable style for recreational club players worldwide. Balancing financial viability with the preservation of specialized disciplines remains one of professional tennis's most delicate administrative challenges ahead of the Turin vote.
While player skepticism remains high regarding the ATP's willingness to negotiate, tour insiders maintain that a compromise is still achievable. Whether through revised metrics or updated scheduling, the mounting pressure from athletes and federations sets the stage for a critical showdown over the future landscape of professional doubles tennis.
Source: BBC Sport
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