ATP eyes US$350mil player compensation, welfare boost by 2028

The ATP aims to substantially increase its player compensation package and improve welfare benefits by 2028, with the total projected to reach US$350 million, according to the organization's plans outlined on Thursday. The initiative seeks to address growing concerns over the demanding 11-month season and the need for better support for players.

ATP Chairman Andrea Gaudenzi proposed a significant expansion of the men's tour bonus pool from US$21.5 million to $50 million, with an additional US$25 million set aside for year-end top-250 players and US$30 million allocated annually for player pensions covering 300 players. The central player compensation, subject to consultation and approval, would exceed US$100 million from 2028, with prize money and profit-sharing driving the total compensation to the projected US$350 million.

The ATP also plans to give greater weight to results at its top events, reducing the incentive for players to chase points at other tournaments after poor performances. Additionally, dedicated tournament-category weeks will be created to provide a clearer structure for the season. The ATP Masters 1000 tournament in Saudi Arabia will be part of this new structure.

The ATP's proposals aim to better align incentives, support more players, and address the costs of competing. The tour's proposals will be reviewed and finalized at the year-end meetings in Turin, with the ATP continuously working with its player and tournament advisory councils and board to bring the package forward. The organization's long-term strategic plan, OneVision, supports these initiatives aimed at creating a more coherent season for players and fans while ensuring the sport's growth benefits all stakeholders.