Two-time Grand Slam champion Alexander Zverev has expressed his support for the best-of-five sets format in tennis, rejecting proposals to shorten matches in the first rounds of the four Grand Slams to best-of-three sets. This debate has gained traction following comments from the chief executive of the Australian Open, who suggested that alterations might draw a younger audience and alleviate late-night matches.
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Zverev emphasized the traditional format's significance to the sport, stating, "It’s history." He remarked that winning a Grand Slam is particularly challenging due to the demanding best-of-five framework, which he described as one of the most physically extreme experiences in tennis.
During the China Open, he noted his own recent US Open experience, featuring two matches that ended past midnight, and stated, "I don’t know a single player who would like to play best-of-three sets." He humorously added that while Novak Djokovic might prefer a shorter format considering his age, he would have opposed it a decade ago.
The debate about the match format continues as officials contemplate ways to enhance viewer engagement.