Holger Rune calls for scheduling changes as expanded Masters events take toll

The former world No 4 has been sidelined since rupturing his left Achilles tendon at the Stockholm Open in October, an injury that required surgery. While Rune has since shared encouraging signs of recovery, the setback has reinforced his concerns about the modern tennis calendar.

The 22-year-old believes the expansion of Masters 1000 tournaments has significantly increased the physical and mental toll on top players.

"It's physically more demanding, but also mentally - it's tough! You're at a tournament for up to 20 days and it feels like almost a full month," Rune told Sky Sports.

"You're at a tournament before you're on to the next one. I personally loved the one-week Masters event, like Monaco or Paris. You get there, play Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and onto the next."

While acknowledging the financial upside, Rune feels elite players are paying the price.

"I understand why they are now two weeks, and I see the financial benefits for everyone and the benefits for the lower ranked players. We just forget the 32-48 players at the top of the ranking. For us it's not optimal but I am sure the ATP will adjust this as they too have an interest in the top players being fresh."

Rune argued that extended formats are justified only at Grand Slams.

"Two weeks is great in the Grand Slams because the matches are more demanding... But it's unnecessary for the Masters!"

He also believes money is driving the current structure.

"That's a fact," Rune said. "But also, we don't want to come and see tired players or injuries occurring in matches because of fatigue. So, it's a balance. I think there needs to be some acceptance of players needing rest."

Rune added that small changes could ease the burden without overhauling the system.

"We really want to show our best tennis to the fans, and I think we can do this with small adjustments in the planning of scheduling seeded players in Masters 1000 for week two."

As for his comeback, Rune is refusing to set a return date as his rehabilitation continues to progress well.

"Honestly, it feels really good... That's why I'm not going to put a date when I'm going to be back," he said.

"My surgeon said it's going really, really well. I'm setting new standards for Achilles rupture recovery in a way."

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