Doubles players unite against proposed ATP draw and prize-money cuts

Doubles players have stepped up their opposition to proposed ATP reforms with an open letter seeking to preserve professional opportunities in the format. BBC Sport reported on Monday that the signatories included 137 current players, 28 former stars and 20 national federations.

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The proposed changes would shrink Masters 1000 doubles fields from 32 teams to 16, while ATP 500 and ATP 250 draws would fall from 16 teams to eight. Sports Business Journal reported in July, citing tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg, that the reductions formed part of a wider ATP restructuring programme for 2028. The plan would reduce both participation and the share of prize money allocated to doubles.

BBC Sport reported that doubles' allocation could drop from 20% to 10%, with the difference going to singles. The letter's supporters argue that commercial growth should not come at the expense of player welfare or the discipline's long-term future.

Dutch player Sem Verbeek helped organise the letter. According to BBC Sport, discussions between players and the ATP have continued since Wimbledon, including at the Shanghai Masters, although players remain concerned about the scope for negotiation.

The ATP has set out a different rationale for reallocating funds. In an Associated Press report carried by Sportsnet earlier this month, chairman Andrea Gaudenzi said money moved from doubles would remain within player compensation. The expected destination would be singles qualifying and early-round prize money, intended to help players meet the costs of competing and developing their careers.

That proposal sits alongside a broader financial package. AP reported plans to increase the year-end bonus pool from $21.5 million to $50 million, provide $25 million in career support for players finishing in the top 250, and make annual pension contributions of about $30 million. Those measures, like the other reforms, still require consultation and approval.

BBC Sport reported that the ATP board is due to vote on the plans at next month's ATP Finals in Turin. Until that process is complete, the smaller draws and reduced doubles allocation remain proposals, not confirmed changes.