LONDON (AP) — Men’s ATP tennis tour paid $1.3 million to a total of 26 players in 2024 under a new financial program called Baseline which guarantees a minimum annual income to players ranked in the top 250.
Players received money in each of three categories, the tour said Wednesday, without naming most of the individuals: 17 were paid under minimum guarantees that make up the difference if players don’t meet certain thresholds in singles prizes, three for injury protection. which helps those whose tournament participation is limited by health issues, and seven through a Newcomer Investment which provides funds to new members of the top 125.
One player received money under both the minimum guarantee and income protection of the plan, announced in August 2023. This season was the first of a three-year trial.
“As a professional tennis player, you focus on results. Relying on your performances for success can be difficult, especially in the face of setbacks like injuries,” said Bernabé Zapata Miralles, who was granted a minimum guarantee to increase his season’s income. “We now have the comfort we need we need to improve ourselves, without the pressure of financial uncertainty.
Based on 2023 end-of-year rankings and 2024 earnings, the ATP made up the difference for players who did not reach certain thresholds: $300,000 for the top 100, $150,000 for men ranked in 101 to 175 and $75,000 for those from 176 to 250.
These numbers will increase next season to $200,000 for numbers 101 to 175 and $100,000 for numbers 176 to 250.
Just for context, end of year n°1 Jannik Sinner led men’s tennis with $16.9 million in prize money in 2024, while No. 100 Federico Coria won about $590,000 and No. 250 Abdullah Shelbayh earned just under $205,000 in singles play.
“We provide players with the financial support they need to overcome challenges and build a lasting career,” said Andrea Gaudenzi, former player and ATP president.
Players must register to be considered for the program and the tour hopes more participants will take part than the more than 100 who did in 2024.
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AP Tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis
