Felix Auger-Aliassime defends season scheduling despite many injuries

Monday, 14 November 2022 at 00:30

Updated at Sunday, 13 November 2022 at 22:48

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byTom Grant

Felix Auger-Aliassime insists the long tennis season should remain as it is as critics claim the long competitive year is adding to player injuries.

The Canadian No.1 was speaking after losing his 82nd match of the year to Casper Ruud on Sunday at the ATP Finals in Turin.

The event has been marred somewhat by the recent withdrawal of World No.1 Carlos Alcaraz, after he tore his abdomen playing against Holger Rune at the Paris Indoor Msters.

That followed a number of significant injuries through the 11-month tennis year, with high-profile cases such as Alexander Zverev, Jannik Sinner and Rafael Nadal encountering a variety of issues caused by the demands of playing top ten tennis.

Critics argue that the long season leads to an increased likelihood of player injuries and burnout, but Auger-Aliassime doesn't agree, instead warning it is up to players to embrace the 'challenge.'

He told reporters following his 6-7, 4-6 defeat: "At the end of the day, it’s about preparation and discipline to try to stay ready, and to accept that’s the reality, the season.”

This year, players on both the WTA and ATP Tours will only get a four-week break to refresh and recharge the batteries thanks to the introduction of the new United Cup mixed event on December 29.

But the World No.6 dismissed claims that players get injured because of the gruelling tour schedule.

“We’re never guaranteed to not be injured," he added.

"I don’t think it will change. I don’t think it should in any way change. For sure more rest would benefit some players, but also give less opportunity to compete and for many players to win money. I think it’s okay as it is. Players need to be ready for the challenge.”

The Canadian’s hope of getting beyond the group stages rests on the outcome of his two upcoming matches against Rafael Nadal and Taylor Fritz. He is yet to beat either of those players on the ATP Tour.