British tennis legend Tim Henman has responded to the recent backlash from top players Carlos Alcaraz and Jack Draper regarding the new shot clock regulations. Despite their criticisms, Henman firmly believes that the automated shot clock is a necessary advancement for the sport.
Previously, the 25-second shot clock would start when the umpire called the score, a system many felt slowed the game too much. The new tweak, trialed at Queen’s this week, initiates the clock almost immediately after a point concludes. This change has not been well-received by some players, including Alcaraz and Draper.
In an interview with The Daily Star, Henman explained his support for the new system. “People talk about changing the game. One area I don’t agree with is the shot clock. Potentially, it’s a very good addition. However, the way it’s being implemented, in my opinion, is wrong. The only watch you have is controlled by the umpire.”
Henman emphasized the inefficiency of the previous system: “The rules in tennis are ’25 seconds between points’. But look at when they start the 25 seconds. Invariably, it’s after the crowd has stopped applauding and they’ve called the score. If 10 seconds is being wasted a point, a game is won to 30, that’s six points…and a minute every game of dead time. You have a 6-4 set, that’s ten minutes. A five-set match, that’s 50 minutes! I feel strongly, as a sport, we could do much better.”
Alcaraz, the world No. 2, expressed his dissatisfaction with the new rule: “I think for the players it’s something bad. I finish the point at the net and I had no time to ask for balls. I’m not saying to go to a towel and take my time. I feel like I can’t ask for the balls.”
This debate comes on the heels of Novak Djokovic’s recent late-night French Open clash with Lorenzo Musetti, which didn’t finish until 3 am. Djokovic criticized the scheduling of the match, highlighting the physical toll it took on him.
Henman believes that the new shot-clock trial could help prevent such extended matches in the future, making the sport more efficient and enjoyable for both players and fans. As the tennis community continues to adjust to these changes, Henman’s stance underscores the ongoing efforts to improve the pace and structure of the game.
Jack Draper in 2024
Ranked no.31 (career-high), Draper played his last match on the 21st of June when he lost to world no.13 Tommy Paul 6-3 5-7 6-4 in the quarter in London (draw).
This year Draper has managed to achieve a compiled 20-13 record. This year, Jack won 1 tournament in Stuttgart. The Brit got to the final in Adelaide.
Carlos Alcaraz in 2024
At the moment ranked no.2, the Spaniard played his last match on the 20th of June when he was defeated by world no.31 Jack Draper 7-6(3) 6-3 in the 2nd round in London (draw).
During this season Alcaraz achieved a compiled 26-6 record. The Spaniard has won 2 titles in 2024 in Indian Wells and French Open.
Jack Draper and Carlos Alcaraz squared off 3 times. Their current head to head is 2-1 for Alcaraz. The last time they fought against each other, Jack Draper won 7-6(3) 6-3 in the 2nd round in London (Cinch Championships) on the 20th of June 2024.
You can see them in action in the following highlights.
Jack Draper and Carlos Alcaraz |
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