Why does the ATP refuse to change the surface and location of the ATP Finals?

Since 2009, the ATP Finals have been played exclusively on indoor hard courts, in Europe. A choice that has caused some to grumble, particularly Rafael Nadal at the time. But why can't the tournament be played on another surface and/or on another continent? Elements revealed by the newspaper L'Équipe.

Created in 1970, the ATP Finals have long changed their name, surface, and format. But since 2009, the focus has been on stability: London, and then Turin since 2021, have hosted a tournament played exclusively on indoor hard courts. A choice that, far from being insignificant, responds to a precise equation involving geography, economics, and performance.

Rafael Nadal, the eternal rival of Djokovic and Federer, has never lifted the Masters trophy. And he knows why.

"We qualify for the ATP Finals by playing on grass, hard court, clay, and indoors. So, systematically playing the Masters on indoor hard courts, I'm not sure it's 100% fair," he mentioned in a 2015 interview relayed by our colleagues at L'Équipe. To which an ATP spokesperson responded:

"We take into account the location, infrastructure, climate, time zones, and consistency with the European indoor tour." In short, the indoor hard court is the perfect compromise surface: it fits within the continuity of the calendar, it avoids long travels at the end of the season, and it offers ideal logistical regularity for sponsors and broadcasters.

The top eight players of the year already finish the season on indoor hard courts in Europe (Basel, Paris-Bercy). Going back to Australia, Asia, or to a different surface afterwards would be a physical and organizational headache.

Furthermore, the indoor hard court allows for shorter match durations, eliminates weather uncertainties, and reduces the risk of injury linked to abrupt transitions (clay, grass…).

In conclusion: the ATP Finals are now durably anchored in a host city. After twelve years in London, Turin has therefore signed a contract until 2030.