Australian tennis player Thanasi Kokkinakis has recently voiced his opinion on the need to shorten the tennis season. The 28-year-old, who has experienced his fair share of injuries, believes that a shorter season could help extend players’ careers and improve their overall health.
Kokkinakis points out that the current tennis season, which runs from January to November, is incredibly demanding. Players often have to travel extensively, especially those without a base in Europe, making it difficult to maintain peak performance and avoid injuries. The Davis Cup, which extends the season even further, adds to the physical and mental strain on players.
Kokkinakis suggests that the season should be shortened to nine months, ending after the US Open or the Asian swing. He also proposes that the Davis Cup be held every two years instead of annually, which would add more prestige to the event and give players a much-needed break.
While some critics argue that players participate in exhibition events after the regular season due to financial incentives, Kokkinakis acknowledges that many players need these opportunities to supplement their income. He believes that increasing prize money in regular events could reduce the need for exhibition matches and help players focus on their health and longevity in the sport.
Kokkinakis is not alone in his views; several top players, including Carlos Alcaraz and Stefanos Tsitsipas, have also expressed concerns about the length and intensity of the tennis calendar. The ATP Tour has been criticized for not doing enough to address these issues, and Kokkinakis hopes that more changes will be made to ensure the well-being of players.
In conclusion, Thanasi Kokkinakis’s call for a shorter tennis season highlights the need for a more sustainable approach to the sport. By reducing the length of the season and making strategic changes to the calendar, the tennis community can better support the health and careers of its athletes.
Thanasi Kokkinakis in 2024
Now ranked no.77, Kokkinakis played his last match on the 23rd of November when he was defeated by world no.34 Matteo Berrettini 6-7(6) 6-3 7-5 in the Rubber 1 of the Davis Cup (draw).
Currently, during this year the Australian owns a 35-21 record. Thanasi has won 2 titles in 2024 in the Sarasota Challenger and the Sydney Challenger.