The Challenge of Unpredictable Match Start Times
Carlos Alcaraz faced a significant challenge in his third-round match at the Cincinnati Open on Friday: maintaining his composure. Before he and opponent Hamad Medjedovic could take the court, they had to endure a lengthy three-hour match between Francisco Comesaña and Reilly Opelka, filled with unexpected turns, medical time-outs, and a rain delay. The uncertainty of when their match would start added to their stress, highlighting one of the many hurdles tennis players must navigate.
After clinching a straightforward win, Alcaraz expressed his frustration from a quiet area near the center court. “It sucks,” he remarked with a smile. “Having to warm up three, four times is horrible. I expected Opelka’s match to be quicker; I didn’t anticipate a three-hour delay.”
The Unique Nature of Tennis Timing
Alcaraz’s experience underscores tennis’s unique challenges. Unlike most sports, matches often don’t have set start times, requiring players to stay focused in the face of unpredictability. Karen Khachanov, currently ranked No. 12 in the world, remarked, “In sports like NHL or soccer, the schedule is clear. In tennis, adapting to the situation is the toughest part.”
The scoring system adds another layer of complexity, with matches capable of shifting dramatically at any moment. Players can find themselves on the brink of victory, only to continue playing for hours. Many players can recall frustrating instances where preceding matches impacted their own ability to stay mentally prepared.
Psychological Battles on the Court
Iga Swiatek remembers her 2023 French Open semi-final, where the dramatic encounter between Karolina Muchova and Aryna Sabalenka led to her warm-ups being repeatedly interrupted. “I warmed up like seven times, literally,” Swiatek noted, sharing her emotional turbulence through the delays.
Competition at grand slam tournaments particularly complicates matters, as extended five-set matches can cause immense frustration. Madison Keys reflected on a US Open scenario where two preceding matches went five sets, emphasizing the chaotic nature of scheduling. “In those situations, I think we should ban five sets,” she joked.
Managing Delays and Expectations
Players must consistently find ways to manage their energy, especially when facing repeated warm-ups. Khachanov highlighted the challenge of resuming focus after warm-ups are hindered by delays. Some players, like Alcaraz, engage in activities like football or cards, while others, such as Andrey Rublev, prefer to nap. Coco Gauff humorously noted, “I’m usually just on TikTok.”
As players grow more experienced, they recognize the necessity of maintaining a strong mental focus despite the unpredictable nature of match timing. In the words of Keys, it’s all about managing one’s energy while remembering that their opponents face the same challenges.
