Stats: Matches Now Last 18 Minutes Longer Than in 2001
Over the past 20 years, the duration of tennis matches has significantly increased.
According to data published by the X account, Jeu, Set et Maths, matches played on the main tour (ATP) now last an average of 18 minutes longer than they did just over twenty years ago (2001).
To give an idea, an ATP best-of-three-sets match today lasts between 1 hour 30 minutes and 3 hours. And in Grand Slam events, between 2 hours 30 minutes and 4 hours.
These figures can be explained by factors such as the improved physical conditioning of athletes, changes in playing styles, and the slowing down of court surfaces.
For reference, many players in 2025 criticized the homogenization of court surfaces, accusing tournaments of favoring top players like Alcaraz and Sinner.
