The tennis world is abuzz with debate over the sport's hectic schedule, and Kim Clijsters has weighed in on the topic. While many players, like Iga Swiatek, have voiced their dissatisfaction with the current tennis calendar, Clijsters offers a different perspective. She suggests that the only way to shorten the tennis season is to overhaul the entire ranking system, but this idea doesn't sit well with many players.
Clijsters' comments come in response to recent complaints from players like Karolina Pliskova, who have criticized the current schedule. During a podcast for Tennis Bolshoi, Clijsters acknowledged the complaints but also highlighted the challenges of shortening the season. She believes that the current schedule is essential for lower-ranked players to gain experience and improve their rankings.
The tennis calendar has indeed started to impact tournaments, with Andy Roddick voicing his concerns about withdrawals in Shanghai. However, Clijsters argues that the organizers and tournament directors are doing their jobs, providing job opportunities and increasing prize money. She sees the bigger calendar as an inevitable part of the sport.
Despite the ongoing debate, the tennis season is far from over. With tournaments in China and beyond, the 2025 season is set to continue. However, Clijsters' point about the importance of lower-level tournaments for lower-ranked players is a valid one. These tournaments provide opportunities for players to build their rankings and gain experience, even if they don't make it to the top events.
In the end, the tennis schedule is a complex issue, and Clijsters' perspective offers a nuanced view. While she acknowledges the complaints, she also emphasizes the need for
