The Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), the association of professional male tennis players, on Tuesday announced the introduction of a program unprecedented on the tour. The focus is on the financial security of the stars of the sport.
From 2024, the “Baseline” program is to start in a three-year test phase. This was announced by the ATP. In concrete terms, it should be ensured that the players behind the absolute top are also able to live “sustainably” from tennis.
To make this possible, the players’ association is introducing a kind of basic income. According to an official statement on the association’s website, this should guarantee the 250 top-ranked players a year’s minimum income.
Specifically, “Baseline” guarantees annual earnings of $300,000 per season for the top 100 players, $150,000 for players ranked 101st through 175th, and $75,000 for athletes ranked 176th through 250th. The sum is paid out, or the difference if the prize money that eligible players have pocketed is below the respective amount.
“This assurance will allow players to plan their season with greater certainty, to focus on their game and to invest in their teams. This includes covering the costs of coaches and personal physiotherapists, as well as travel expenses,” reasoned the ATP her historic step.
In addition, the ATP also steps in if an actor is able to play fewer than nine tournaments on the ATP and/or Challenger tour due to injury. Guaranteed $200,000 (1-100), $100,000 (101-175) and $50,000 (176-250) are designed to ensure stars can focus on making a full recovery from their ailments.
Another pillar of the program will also benefit newcomers. Players who make it into the top 125 first will have access to up to $200,000, which will be offset against the prize pool. This is to ensure investments that will make it possible to gain a foothold on the tour.
Tennis star welcomes “safety net”
“We are very happy about the introduction of Baseline,” ex-player Andrea Gaudenzi, who currently chairs the ATP, is quoted as saying. “This initiative represents a complete shift in the way the sport of tennis approaches player finances. It represents our commitment to players and their careers – we foster an environment where they can thrive and advance the sport. It is also just the beginning of what we hope to achieve, and our goal is to expand this groundbreaking initiative in the years to come.”
“Being a tennis player brings incredible benefits, but it is also a great challenge, especially for those who are just starting out in their careers,” adds Bulgarian star Grigor Dimitrov, member of the ATP Players’ Council. “Baseline is a crucial factor. Knowing that we have a safety net through the minimum guarantee and injury protection gives us security and allows us to focus on our game and strive for success. This shows how much the ATP is committed to the players and the future of our sport.”
According to the report, it is currently assumed that around 30 to 45 players per year will receive financial support.