Jannik Sinner Gives Lukewarm Response to Expanded Cincinnati Masters Format
CINCINNATI — World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has given a tepid endorsement of the newly expanded 12-day format for the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Masters, confessing that he would personally prefer the tournament to remain its traditional one-week length. The Italian star, who is the defending champion, expressed his concerns while speaking to the media ahead of the final major tune-up event before the US Open.
Sinner’s comments highlight a growing tension between the tour’s push for longer, more lucrative tournaments and the players’ desire for a less physically demanding schedule.
Sinner’s Perspective on the New Format
Sinner, who recently celebrated a major victory over Carlos Alcaraz in the Wimbledon final, will be defending his title at the tournament. However, his enthusiasm for the new schedule was notably reserved.
“I think for the tournament it’s a good thing, to make it bigger,” Sinner said in a press conference. “But honestly, for the players, I prefer the one week.”
The 23-year-old acknowledged that the extended format provides more time for rest and recovery between matches, but suggested that the added length could disrupt a player’s rhythm, particularly as they prepare for the rigors of a Grand Slam. His diplomatic but clear stance reflects the ongoing debate within the locker room about the demanding nature of the professional tennis calendar.
The Reasons for the Change
The Cincinnati Masters, along with several other key tournaments, was extended to a 12-day format as part of a strategic move by the ATP and WTA tours. The change is designed to give players more rest days, reduce the pressure of a compacted schedule, and offer a more comprehensive experience for fans.
The expanded format allows for a more staggered start and more matches in the early rounds, which is intended to increase fan engagement and ticket sales. Officials believe this model is better for the long-term health of the sport, but many players have voiced concerns that it adds more weeks to an already grueling season.
The Player’s Dilemma
Sinner is not alone in his reservations. Many top players have voiced concerns about the demanding schedule, which requires constant travel and puts immense physical strain on the body. A longer tournament, while offering more rest between matches, also means a longer commitment in a single city, which can impact preparation for the next event.
As the defending champion, Sinner won the 2024 Cincinnati Masters, beating Grigor Dimitrov in the final, and his performance this year will be closely watched. The tournament is a critical hardcourt event, offering players a final chance to hone their skills and build momentum on the same surface as the US Open. For Sinner, finding his form quickly will be paramount as he aims to capture his second major title of the year.
The debate over tournament length and player welfare is a recurring theme in professional tennis. As the sport continues to grow, finding a balance between commercial interests and the physical needs of its athletes remains a key challenge for tour organizers. Sinner’s comments serve as a timely reminder that the players themselves have a voice in shaping the future of the game.