First, I am not saying it is even financially possible for this to happen. I am legitimately asking for those who understand the finances of the ATP.
I wonder if this is possible for several reasons:
- Tour level is abysmal and some slam matches aren't even watchable anymore
This juice box Era with the ngbs is something else. I'll give you fed had a few weak years, but we are going into year 5 with no end in sight. It just is not good tennis.
- Many fans are big 3 followers only. Whether fed, rafa, or djoker.
Many fans came to tennis because of these guys and the show was worth every penny. With them fading out how many will still continue to follow the tour in the same way. These fans had a big contribution to the finances of the tour.
- Some true tennis fans will leave after the big 3
Yes I get it. Many say true tennis fans will still love the game and follow. But many won't. They have seen the greatest tennis that will ever be played. They know it's only downhill from here and no future on the horizon. These people are the life line of the tour. Some will stay, but they won't be as invested knowing the new generation couldn't even beat old greats.
- Longest generation to ever play
With the big 3 basically owning the tour and the fans since 2003, that is basically 20 years since we haven't had them. Many new tennis fans became fans of tennis during this time. The aura of the big match, the slam race, and the big names. Even the old tennis fans will have a hard time with the loss of the vibe and importance of every match. It will be like starting completely new.
- New generation of fan and player
We know the younger generations, fans and players alike have less attention span and work ethic. Do they want to play 5 sets? No. Do they even want to play full sets? The ATP will have to make many rule changes to keep them interested.
