Emma Raducanu’s ex-coach reacts to Carlos Alcaraz’s brutal criticism of ATP calendar

Mark Petchey, former coach of Emma Raducanu and Andy Murray, responded to Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev’s public criticisms of the ATP calendar. While Petchey acknowledged the validity of their concerns, he suggested that such discussions should occur privately rather than in public forums, as they risk casting a negative light on the sport.

Both Alcaraz and Zverev voiced their frustrations during the Laver Cup in Berlin, where Alcaraz commented that the schedule was unsustainable for players, and Zverev criticized the ATP as prioritizing profit over the well-being of athletes. Petchey, referencing Netflix’s canceled tennis documentary Break Point, highlighted how negative portrayals can disengage fans.

He emphasized that though the challenges of the ATP schedule are real, open criticism may not resonate with the public, who often view the sport’s financial rewards in contrast to the hardships expressed by top players.

Petchey offered a possible solution, suggesting the introduction of a mid-season break to alleviate player burnout. He proposed a hiatus after Wimbledon until two weeks before the US Open, giving players and fans a chance to recharge. Petchey also advocated for an earlier conclusion to the season, finishing in October or early November, with the tour resuming in Australia the following year. His remarks reflect a broader conversation within tennis about the balance between player health, tournament commitments, and the sport’s business demands. Both Alcaraz and Zverev’s frustrations echo similar complaints from athletes over the years, but as Petchey suggested, the conversation about improving the tour’s structure might be more productive if handled away from the public eye.