Taylor Fritz has highlighted concerns over the packed tennis calendar following withdrawals by Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic from the National Bank Open. The comments come ahead of the tournament's start on August 2 in Montreal. Tournament director Valerie Tetreault also expressed disappointment while emphasizing player health priorities.
Taylor Fritz raised the issue during his pre-tournament press conference at the DC Citi Open. He noted that changes to the Masters schedule have led to more matches and longer seasons for players.
"It feels like I’m playing more matches. It feels like the season got longer to me," Fritz said. He added that while the sport operates as a business, organizers must better accommodate players' physical and mental demands.
Valerie Tetreault, the Canadian Open tournament director, voiced similar concerns. "We respect their decisions and understand that, with such a demanding schedule, players’ health must remain the priority," she stated. She pointed to the frequency of recent last-minute withdrawals as a broader issue.
The National Bank Open begins August 2. Seven of nine Masters 1000 events now last over 12 days, stretching the 11-month ATP and WTA seasons.
