Coco Gauff Addresses Concerns Over Late Match Finishes in Tennis
Tennis sensation Coco Gauff raises awareness on the impact of late-night match endings, citing concerns for player well-being. Despite acknowledging the issue, Gauff shows humility by highlighting global disparities in working conditions.
US Open champion Coco Gauff expressed her concern about tennis matches ending late at 3 a.m., stating that it is not good for the players' health. However, she also acknowledged that there are many people working in much harsher conditions worldwide.
Gauff made these remarks during this year's French Open, following a thrilling five-set match between Novak Djokovic and Italian player Lorenzo Musetti. The match concluded at 3.08 a.m. local time in Paris on Sunday.
Djokovic made history at Roland Garros with his victory, finishing the match almost two hours later than the previous record.
When asked about late matches, Gauff shared her thoughts with reporters on Sunday. She mentioned how at 3 a.m., players still have to deal with press, shower, eat, and undergo treatment. This topic has sparked debate for years.
I believe staying up until 5 a.m. or even 6 or 7 a.m. is not ideal. It can disrupt your schedule and may not be fair to those who have to play late.
CNN has contacted the French Open for a statement, but has not received a response yet.
Earlier this year, the WTA and ATP announced a new plan to address the problem of late finishes in tournaments.
The updated regulations restrict the number of night matches and prohibit any match from commencing after 11 p.m.
Novak Djokovic and Lorenzo Musetti played the longest match in French Open history over the weekend.
Novak Djokovic and Lorenzo Musetti played the longest match in French Open history over the weekend.
Curfews are not implemented during grand slam events like the French Open, Australian Open, and US Open. These tournaments often experience late finishes due to the high demand for tickets and broadcasting rights.
Wimbledon, meanwhile, has a curfew rule that prevents matches from continuing past 11 p.m.
‘I’d be upset to hear players complain’
Gauff, who advanced to the quarterfinals of the French Open on Sunday, expressed her dissatisfaction with the current rules at most grand slams. However, she acknowledged her privileged position as a professional tennis player.
She mentioned, "I don’t want to complain too much about it because we’re very blessed and privileged to be playing for a lot of money. There are people working real jobs under worse conditions for less money and just trying to get by."
Tennis - French Open - Roland Garros, Paris, France - June 4, 2022 Poland's Iga Swiatek kisses the trophy after winning the women's singles final match against Cori Gauff of the U.S. REUTERS/Yves Herman TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY
Poland's Iga Swiatek celebrates her victory at the French Open by kissing the trophy. She won the women's singles final match against Cori Gauff of the U.S. on June 4, 2022 in Paris, France. The image captures her joyful moment of triumph.
Yves Herman/Reuters
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Iga Świątek, who is known for being introverted, has managed to become a four-time grand slam champion. She has always found it challenging to navigate her success while being mindful of her family's background and the struggles they have faced. Despite understanding that some people may be upset to hear players complain, she believes that there is a need for a balance in the way players express their challenges and concerns.
I believe both tournaments and players are giving their best efforts. However, I feel there needs to be a compromise for the well-being and safety of everyone.
Women's world No. 1 Iga Świątek also raised concerns about whether spectators could truly enjoy late matches.
"I always thought we should start a little earlier," she shared with the reporters.
"I also wonder if fans can watch these late matches if they have work the next day," she added, noting that some matches finish at 2 or 3 a.m.
“It’s not up to us [players]. We need to accept anything that is going to come to us.”
Editor's P/S:
I believe that the concerns raised by Coco Gauff and Iga Świątek about late-night tennis matches are valid. Players' health and well-being should be a top priority, and it is not fair to expect them to compete at their best after playing until the early hours of the morning. While Gauff acknowledges that many people work in harsher conditions, it is important to remember that professional tennis players are also athletes who deserve to be treated with respect and consideration.
I think the WTA and ATP's new plan to address the issue of late finishes is a step in the right direction, but I believe more can be done. Curfews should be implemented at all grand slam events to ensure that matches do not continue past a reasonable hour. This would not only benefit the players but also the spectators, who may have to get up for work or school the next day. I hope that tournament organizers and broadcasters will take these concerns seriously and work together to find a solution that is fair to everyone involved.
