ATP faces pressure to add grass Masters amid calendar imbalance

Idea gains traction as calendar imbalance raises questions.

The grass-court stretch remains one of the most captivating phases of the ATP Tour, largely driven by the prestige of Wimbledon and the tradition of key lead-up events across Europe.

Tournaments like Queen’s and Halle continue to draw strong attention each June, yet the limited number of grass events suggests there is still untapped potential within this part of the calendar.

ATP calendar imbalance highlights missed opportunity

Compared to other surfaces, grass remains significantly underrepresented on the ATP Tour. While more than 30 tournaments are played on hard courts annually, just seven events take place on grass, including Wimbledon.

Notably, none of the nine Masters 1000 tournaments are held on grass. Although logistical challenges—such as maintenance costs and weather dependency—make organizing such events more complex, the current disparity appears disproportionate given the surface’s popularity.

The consistent global appeal of Wimbledon and other European grass tournaments reinforces the argument that the ATP could benefit from expanding this segment. With players like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner emerging as dominant forces on grass, the timing may be ideal to capitalize on growing fan interest.

Introducing a Masters-level grass event would likely require structural adjustments, whether by upgrading an existing tournament or replacing another event on the calendar. Either approach would represent a strategic shift aimed at elevating the surface’s status within the tour.

Andy Roddick explains challenges behind grass expansion

Former world number one Andy Roddick has previously supported the idea of adding a grass-court Masters, though he acknowledged the practical limitations involved.

“The other thing about having a Masters on grass, yes I wanted that forever. It should be the case,” Roddick said on the Served Podcast.

He pointed to the physical demands placed on grass courts, particularly during Wimbledon, where surfaces deteriorate quickly under heavy use.

“The courts at the end of Wimbledon are trashed… you can’t practice on them as a seeded player.”

Roddick also referenced Roger Federer’s experience, noting that even at the peak of his career, practice time was restricted due to court preservation.

“You don’t get on stadium like you do at the other [Slams], it’s untenable on grass.”

Despite these concerns, the discussion continues, with many viewing a grass-court Masters as a logical evolution for a surface that remains central to the sport’s identity.

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