Proposals led by Billie Jean King aim to align major tennis events with a Premium Tour, ensuring equal pay for male and female players. Talks between Tennis Australia and the US Tennis Authority, held during the Australian Open, signing momentum for change. The plan suggests condensing major tournaments into 11 to 14 combined events, potentially reshaping the traditional Grand Slam calendar.
Wimbledon, a cornerstone of tennis, may adjust its schedule, possibly moving the Championships back a week. This shift could clash with The Open Championships, impacting viewership during the finals weekend. While the adjustment is unprecedented, as seen in the 2019 final overlapping with the ODI World Cup final, it presents logistical challenges.
The Australian Open faces a dilemma, contemplating a one-week postponement that could deter speculations due to school resumptions. The French Open might move forward, but concerns arise regarding chilly May evenings in Paris. However, the US Open remains untouched, benefitting from increased during the Labor Day weekend.
Overall, the proposed change seeks to modernize the tennis calendar, ensuring optimizing event attendance. While adjustments like shifting Wimbledon’s dates or rearranging the Australian Open pose logistical hurdles, they are aimed at fostering equality and enhancing the sport’s appeal globally.
Rohan Bopanna reminisces about cricket sessions with Roger Federer at Wimbledon
Rohan Bopanna, the recent men’s doubles champion at the 2024 Australia Open shared some insights about his interaction with Roger Federer during an interview with Indian influencer Dilip Kumar. Bopanna praised Federer not only for his remarkable achievements but also for his demeanor off the court.
During the interview, Bopanna fondly recalled playing cricket with Federer in the locker room area in Wimbledon. He mentioned that they would often find themselves with free time in between matches and would use the opportunity to play cricket together.
“I think how he changed the sport, not only on the court but off the court as well. He was somebody who communicated with all the players and understood them….There were many times where we were at Wimbledon in the locker room, you know Roger and I used to play cricket together ”
-Rohan Bopanna in the interview
