“The schedule needs to be looked at”: Tim Henman rejects five-set debate and calls for calendar reform

Tim Henman has questioned whether women’s singles matches at Grand Slam tournaments should be extended to five sets, arguing that the sport should instead focus on improving the overall tennis calendar. Speaking to Tennis365, the former British No. 1 suggested the structure of the majors is functioning well and does not require immediate reform.

The debate resurfaced recently after tennis administrator Craig Tiley expressed support for introducing best-of-five-set matches for women in the latter stages of Grand Slam tournaments.

Tiley argued that extending matches in the quarterfinals, semifinals and finals could add another dimension to the sport’s biggest events.

Henman, however, believes the conversation may be misplaced. Amid the usual criticism of the calendar from players and an increasingly tight schedule, the former World No. 4 believes the debate should instead focus on finding a more suitable calendar — and not on extending the traditional best-of-three-set matches at Grand Slams for women.

Henman made it clear that he does not see a strong argument for altering the traditional structure of women’s singles matches at the four major tournaments. The former Wimbledon semifinalist pointed to the history and success of the Grand Slams as evidence that the current system is effective. “I wouldn’t think we need to do this, from a history and tradition standpoint.”

Henman argued that the majors already deliver compelling narratives and remain the centerpiece of the tennis calendar. From his perspective, the sport should avoid making structural changes unless there is a clear necessity. “The Grand Slams are working just fine. There are a lot of other change I’d make within this sport before I start fiddling with the Grand Slams.”

His comments reflect a broader sentiment among some former players that the existing format continues to produce dramatic matches and strong engagement with fans, without requiring additional physical demands on players in the women’s draw.

Tiley’s suggestion that five-set matches could be introduced from the quarterfinals onward at the Australian Open in the coming years is something the Tennis Australia chief studied in depth during his time leading the organization, and it is an idea that could eventually be considered by other Grand Slam tournaments. His recent move from Melbourne to a senior leadership role with the USTA — and therefore the US Open — could open the door for a new format to be considered at Flushing Meadows.

Instead of focusing on Grand Slam match formats, Henman believes tennis should prioritize improving the structure of the annual tour schedule. In particular, he highlighted the early-season calendar as an example of how tournaments can overlap and dilute the significance of individual events. “The schedule needs to be looked at. You make the schedule more relevant. I’ve said this many times before.”

Henman pointed to the month of February as a period when tournaments across different regions compete simultaneously for attention. Events in Doha, Dubai, Rotterdam, Acapulco and Buenos Aires often take place within the same timeframe, creating a crowded landscape that can be difficult for fans to follow.

“Look at the month of February. There is so much tennis going on all over the world and players are playing in Doha, Dubai, Rotterdam, Acapulco, Buenos Aires. And what does it all mean to the fans?”

The former British player also questioned recent changes to the Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 tournaments, which in some cases have expanded into longer 12-day events. While acknowledging the commercial reasons behind the decision, Henman suggested the format may not benefit the overall structure of the season.

“I understand why the Masters 1000s have gone towards 12 days, but I don’t think it’s conducive to a good calendar for the players.”

Henman concluded by reiterating that the sport should focus on creating a clearer and more meaningful calendar for both players and fans, rather than altering the format of its most successful events. “So I’d definitely change the calendar and make sure all the tennis we see is relevant.”