"Players are in tournament mode too much" - Tim Henman advocates for shortening of the ATP calendar

With several top ATP stars developing injuries during the 2025 season, former World No.4 Tim Henman has called for tennis' governing body to shorten the calendar in order to relieve both physical and mental stress from its players.

The top ATP stars traveled to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for the Six Kings Slam exhibition event. The tournament features Grand Slam champions Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic. Additionally, Greek star Stefanos Tsitsipas, former World No.2 Alexander Zverev and top-ranked American Taylor Fritz were also invited to compete at the event.

The Six Kings Slam takes place towards the end of the season, with several stars already suffering from injuries picked up during the season. Zverev aggravated an existing shoulder injury in his match against Fritz, while British star Jack Draper was forced to withdraw due to injury. Draper was subsequently replace by Tsitsipas, who is dealing with back problems of his own.

Henman is currently performing broadcasting duties for the event. The tennis player-turned-analyst made some suggestions that could benefit not just players, but also indirectly help the Six Kings Slam.

Several ATP players have complained about the length of the season, with many voicing their frustrations as they struggle with injury. Furthermore, a few top stars participate in exhibition events, which take place at various periods during the year.

Henman believes the ATP Tour schedule should end earlier, which would give the players the opportunity to play exhibition events during the longer off-season.

"In the bigger picture, it’s going to be a challenge with the calendar," said Henman. "If I could change one thing, it would be to free up the calendar. The 12-day Masters events are too long.
"Players are in tournament mode too much. If you are able to shorten the season and play until the end of October, it gives players an opportunity to rest and prepare and take advantage of the opportunities out there."

Following the conclusion of the year-ending ATP Finals, a few tennis players still have obligations to participate in exhibition matches. Alcaraz has signed up for several matches in America in December, which gives him less time to recover and prepare for the Australian Open in January.