In an exciting shift, the Queen’s Club is set to host a women’s tournament in 2025, marking a return to its roots after more than five decades. This move, however, has sparked discussions with the ATP regarding its potential impact on the men’s event scheduled for the following week.
Male players have expressed concerns about the condition of the grass courts they’ll inherit at this iconic venue in west London. The ATP has requested a thorough review post the inaugural two-week event next year. Despite these concerns, the LTA remains steadfast in its belief that this will become a permanent fixture.
Chris Pollard, LTA’s director of major events, reassured, “We have repeatedly assured the ATP that there won’t be any compromise on the integrity and performance of the court.” He further stated, “Our focus is on delivering a successful tournament, and we’re confident this will be a permanent move.”
Taking into account factors like weather conditions and court wear, the LTA has meticulously planned for this transition. However, it’s worth noting that there will be fewer courts available for early practicing and preparation for the men’s qualifying event.
Scheduled immediately after the French Open, the women’s tournament aims to boost the profile of the women’s game and kickstart the grass-court season with a bang. Despite only five of the top 20 players participating last year post-Roland Garros, the LTA believes the allure of Queen’s pristine grass and iconic venue will entice more top players to compete. which you can see for great prices with Aceify.
While both events will share ‘500 status’, there will be disparities in prize money. Pollard addressed this complexity, citing the differing regulations of the WTA and ATP. He expressed optimism about the evolving landscape of prize money distribution in tennis.
In reshuffling the tennis calendar, Nottingham’s WTA 250 event will move to follow the women’s tournament at Queen’s, with the Edgbaston Priory Club relinquishing its long-held WTA event. Surbiton will be replaced by the Priory Club for hosting the men’s and women’s Challenger tournaments.
Eastbourne will retain its combined event before Wimbledon but with the WTA tournament now downgraded to 250 status, there will be stricter entry requirements. This shift aims to balance the tournament lineup amidst other events in the same week, ensuring a competitive field while maintaining the prestige of the tournament.
