Tommy Paul says there is a ‘misconception’ about the tennis calendar and the effect it has on players

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Players complained about the tennis calendar throughout 2025…

Some of the best players in the world, including ATP number one Carlos Alcaraz, spoke out about the schedule last year.

The number of events players are required to play has increased over recent years, and many are concerned that the risk of injury has risen as a result of the change.

One player who missed large parts of 2025 due to injury, Tommy Paul, has now shared his thoughts, explaining one ‘misconception’ that fans have about the schedule.

Tommy Paul says longer tournaments aren’t any easier on players

“Obviously as players we always like the bigger tournaments, but the bigger tournaments now are two weeks long,” he said during his pre-tournament press conference in Brisbane.

“I feel like it’s a misconception.

“A lot of people think the two-week, ten-day events are easier on us, but it’s not.

“We’re playing less tournaments, but we’re playing the same amount of time. Not too much changes.”

His comments came in reply to a question about the new Saudi Arabian Masters 1000 event, which is set to begin in 2028.

Many believe that the event will replace several smaller tournaments, with those in South America potentially set to make way.

Paul was then asked the following question about the tennis schedule.

“You say that maybe the calendar is too long for tennis, if you compare it with other sports. Do you think that’s something that is going to change in the future?” asked the reporter.

“No,” replied Paul.

The American doesn’t expect anything to change in terms of the tennis schedule.

Switching his focus away from the calendar debate, Paul has a job to do in Brisbane on his return to the ATP Tour.

Who will Tommy Paul play at the Brisbane International?

Paul last played a professional match in August 2025, losing in the third round of the US Open.

He’ll return in Brisbane to take on the big-serving Frenchman, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard.

Mpetshi Perricard welcomed back another player from injury in Brisbane last year, defeating Nick Kyrgios in three sets.

If Paul were to do what Kyrgios couldn’t and beat Mpetshi Perricard, he’d advance to play either Australia’s Adam Walton or a qualifier.

Only time will tell how Paul will perform at the Brisbane International, but it will certainly be interesting to see if he looks 100% on his return to injury.

Paul will play Mpetshi Perricard on Monday, January 5.