Carlos Alcaraz has urged grand slam organizers to implement an 11 PM cutoff for matches following his late exit from the US Open, where he was defeated by Ben Shelton at 3:33 AM earlier this month. This match marked the latest finish in the tournament's history.
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During the opening week of the tournament, three matches extended past 2 AM, and two others went beyond midnight. Venus Williams also played a late match that started at 12:13 AM. Alcaraz expressed his concerns to reporters in London ahead of the Laver Cup, stating that late matches deter fans, as fewer attendees remain for prolonged finishes.
He suggested adjusting the schedule to ensure matches conclude by 11 PM, or another feasible time. While the United States Tennis Association (USTA), which oversees the US Open, did not respond immediately to requests for comment, they have indicated plans to review scheduling practices in the future.
Other major tournaments have already adopted measures to avoid late finishes, such as Wimbledon, which stops play by 11 PM, and the French Open, which limits evening sessions to one match.
The increasing demands on players and congested tournament schedules have drawn growing criticism from elite athletes. Andre Agassi, captain of Team World at the Laver Cup, highlighted the need for players to have guaranteed rest periods after the season ends. He expressed hope for a secure offseason that benefits both athletes and fans.
Discussing the Laver Cup's place in the tennis calendar, Agassi praised the event, emphasizing the importance of maintaining its quality. He stated that keeping athletes at their best is beneficial for everyone involved in the sport.