The ATP has launched a new initiative in 2025 aimed at standardising the balls used throughout the professional tennis calendar, marking a significant shift in how tournaments operate. For the first time, the ATP is overseeing the selection of ball suppliers in collaboration with tournament organisers, replacing the previous system where each event independently chose its own brand and model.
This change is designed to reduce the variability players face from week to week, particularly during tightly packed tournament swings. In the past, players often had to adjust to different ball types within short timeframes, which impacted preparation and performance. Now, with centralisation in place, swings such as the February European indoor events, the Americas and Middle East outdoor stretch, and the European spring clay season are already seeing improved consistency.
The ATP’s Chief Sporting Officer, Ross Hutchins, noted that this move is part of a broader effort to improve the player experience. “The results are clear—greater consistency, fewer changes, and ultimately a more seamless experience for players week to week,” he said.
The centralisation process is being refined through player feedback, ball quality data, and updated certification standards. More than 3,500 player surveys have been collected since 2023 to guide the initiative, and full alignment across all tournament swings is expected by 2027 as existing contracts expire.
This development not only benefits players but also enhances the viewing experience for fans, who can expect more consistent match dynamics across surfaces and regions. The ATP’s behind-the-scenes work is shaping a more unified and predictable Tour environment—one bounce at a time.