Courtesy: Google
Casper Ruud’s early exit from the 2025 French Open has once again spotlighted the issue of player workload and the ATP’s mandatory event rules. The Norwegian, who was runner-up in Paris in both 2022 and 2023, was ousted in the second round by Portugal’s Nuno Borges after struggling physically through much of the match. His left knee, which had troubled him throughout the clay season, visibly hindered his movement.
The result not only marked his earliest French Open departure since 2018 but also fueled further scrutiny over how the ATP's scheduling pressures may be contributing to player injuries. Speaking after his defeat, Ruud opened up about the increasing strain of the ATP calendar, especially the rule requiring top players to compete in all nine Masters 1000 events or face ranking penalties. For Ruud, the policy leaves little room for athletes to manage minor injuries or take preventive rest. “It’s tough to be in a position where you’re forced to play when you don’t feel well. If you don’t, you’re going to get zero points, and that’s what’s going to count on your ranking,” he said.
I had a small injury and wanted to skip 1000 but I couldn’t: Rudd speaks about participation in recent events
Ruud further explained the far-reaching consequences of the rule, pointing to a situation he experienced last season. “If you skip an ATP 1000, the ATP punishes you, and you have to count that zero in your ranking,” he noted. “That’s what I had to do last year. I had a small injury and wanted to skip a 1000, but I couldn’t. That’s why I had to play both Madrid and Rome. And that’s where I hurt myself more and more,” Ruud added.
The pressure to appear at these events, even while carrying physical issues, can worsen injuries and compromise performance, creating a cycle that’s difficult for athletes to break. Ruud’s candid remarks have reignited the conversation around the ATP's ranking system and its impact on player health. As the tour grows more physically demanding with minimal offseason recovery time, players are pushing for a more balanced approach that prioritizes long-term well-being.
