Michael Stich has voiced strong criticism of the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), claiming that its recent lawsuit is damaging the sport. The former Wimbledon champion expressed his concerns about the association’s actions, particularly their legal challenge, which he believes could negatively impact tennis as a whole.
Responding to Patrick Mouratoglou, who has supported the PTPA’s efforts, Stich highlighted the risks of creating division within the tennis community.
He stated:
“Dear Patrick, as a former player I can agree with some of the things you write,” the German said.Michael Stich Instagram
“I was on the Players’ Board in the 90s an we tried to get more share of the money. It is a constant process over the last 50 years.
“But no generation has made so much money as the current. Look at the prize money of top players singles and doubles. So it has to come from those players to support the rest as you write. They have to give. It’s not up to the system.
“As a promoter for the Hamburg tournament, I can tell you that is difficult to generate profit for such an event. And I believe there are many tournaments that are not getting rich doing it. But they love the sport and the environment.
“But top players [are] asking for guarantees that are not reasonable and that creates big problems for tournaments. So start by having a limit for guarantees. Then promoter could even raise prize money.
“But the players want all. More money, less obligations to play, no commitment to tournaments. They have to understand that the promoters give them jobs and are a valuable partner on tour.
“But in my ten years there was no discussion between players and tournaments. It’s all about expectation. The PTPA is hurting the sport with their move and it makes me very sad.”
