The physical and mental toll of participating in tennis tournaments has become a significant concern among top players in recent years, culminating in alarming discussions about burnout. Notably, Australian world number nine Alex de Minaur recently articulated his struggles with feeling burnt out, especially following an early exit from the French Open 2025. Despite holding a commanding two-set lead in his second-round match against Kazakhstan’s Alexander Bublik, he faltered, ultimately attributing his performance to exhaustion.
The ongoing discourse surrounding the arduous tennis schedule has seen numerous players express their distress over the increasing demands of competition. For instance, British player Jack Draper highlighted the intense mental strain that comes with the relentless schedule faced by prominent athletes. Likewise, Iga Swiatek, a five-time women’s major champion, referred to the prevailing demands as “pretty exhausting.” In a similar vein, Casper Ruud noted his frustration with the “rat race” of rankings, emphasizing how players’ careers might shorten due to burnout. De Minaur further stressed, “There is just too much tennis.”
The governing bodies of tennis, which include the ATP Tour and WTA Tour, are acknowledging these concerns. The ATP has assured players that these worries are taken seriously and that the health and wellbeing of players remain a priority. However, the question persists: what solutions could alleviate the pressure and fatigue that leading stars endure?
One critical aspect contributing to player burnout is the sheer volume of tennis played throughout the year. The tennis season spans roughly 11 months, and players often find themselves juggling numerous tournaments back-to-back. Last season alone, Jannik Sinner, the men’s world number one, engaged in 79 matches across 17 events, while Aryna Sabalenka, the top-ranked women’s player, participated in 70 matches in comparable conditions. De Minaur, who participated in 23 tournaments, noted that he had remarkably few days off before jumping directly into a new season. The ceaseless nature of competition raises concerns about the sustainability of such a demanding schedule.
Furthermore, players often feel pressured to compete regardless of their physical condition. Japan’s Naomi Osaka reflected on her own experience, noting that she secured two of her four Grand Slam titles while injured, corroborating the sentiment that it is typical for players to play through pain. This predicament was echoed by Ruud, who remarked on the economic, ranking, and opportunity losses if players choose not to compete when unwell. While ATP reference systems like the Baseline program exist, which aim to support injured players, the general consensus is that competitive pressures often leave athletes with little choice but to participate in tournaments, risking their health.
Additionally, the structure of rankings may also contribute to the competitive rat race players face. The ATP rankings require participation in 19 events each year, stacked against a limited number of top tournament opportunities. Players like De Minaur, who have missed significant events due to injury, find their rankings adversely affected, further intensifying their struggle against burnout.
In summary, the conversations surrounding player burnout in tennis have unveiled an urgent need for reform within the sport. The tide is shifting toward an acknowledgment of player welfare, as governing bodies begin to address concerns about lengthened seasons and demanding schedules. Tennis athletes, pushed to their limits in their pursuit of success, must now advocate for a balance that prioritizes their health and longevity in the sport, allowing them to enjoy fulfilling careers in a less punishing environment.