Lopez's view on a lighter schedule: "When we try to solve the problem, we run into a multitude of obstacles"
Former Spanish professional tennis player Feliciano Lopez has addressed player criticisms regarding the schedule.
Former world number 12, Feliciano Lopez retired in 2023 after a 26-year career. Now the director of the Davis Cup Finals, the Toledo native naturally keeps a close eye on player performances on the ATP Tour.
In recent hours, the 44-year-old was asked about the length of the season and discussed the fact that players criticize a schedule that, in their opinion, should be less packed.
"Complaints about the schedule go back a long time and don't seem likely to stop. On one hand, I understand some players regarding the length of the schedule, but when you sit down, lay out the schedule in front of you, and try to solve this problem, you run into a multitude of obstacles.
That's the reality. It's very difficult to find a balance between increasing prize money and shortening the schedule. There are four Grand Slam tournaments that also drive the growth of other tournaments... There are many factors that make it difficult to establish a shorter schedule.
I've been playing tennis for many years and I understand that the season can be long, but it's not so easy to find a solution. Some tournaments are mandatory, others are not.
Players can also choose which tournaments they participate in or not, and I think it's important to choose the tournaments you participate in wisely to finish the year as fresh as possible.
I understand the criticisms, but when you have the schedule in front of you, it's not so easy to create a schedule that satisfies everyone," Lopez stated in recent hours to the Iberian media AS.
Sounds like they have the same dilemma some doctors have. You want more money, schedule more patients. Want more free time schedule fewer patients.
Want more money, play more tournaments. Want more free time, play fewer tournaments.