Laura Robson would not assume that including a very new Masters grass event is feasible within the present schedule, however suggests there may be nonetheless an possibility for that to occur if the ATP decides to improve an present grass event to the 1000-level.
Just lately, it was formally confirmed that Saudi Arabia would host a Masters event from 2028. Whereas the precise date of the occasion hasn’t been revealed, the early rumors counsel it might happen earlier than the Australian Open or in February.
Sharing his ideas on the matter for Sky Sports activities, Tim Henman backed the Saudi Masters to be “an ideal event.” Nonetheless, the previous six-time Grand Slam champion additionally used the chance to state that he wish to lastly see the ATP calendar embrace a grass Masters event.
Within the present calendar, there are 9 ATP tournaments within the 1000-category – six of them happen on arduous whereas three are clay occasions.
Robson, a former world No. 27, would not have something towards Henman’s want being fulfilled, however believes it’s simpler mentioned than executed.
Robson: The calendar is so jam-packed… Perhaps provided that an already present event will get upgraded
“You may try to improve a event that’s already there however actually, I believe the calendar is already so jam-packed. No-one is asking for an additional Masters 1000. It could actually be good as a result of it is the one floor that does not have one, however on the similar time it is a very busy time of the season. There are some nice choices for those who’re trying to play 500 however logistically it is very, very powerful to have a grass-court venue that may maintain a Masters-level occasion if you consider the courts wanted to carry the draw measurement within the first place,” Robson instructed Sky Sports activities.
The vast majority of tournaments going down through the grass season are from the ATP 250 class. Solely the Queen’s Membership and Halle host ATP 500 grass occasions. As a Grand Slam, Wimbledon is by far the most important grass occasion within the calendar.
