Andrey Rublev has shared his perspective on the potential launch of a Masters 1000 event in Saudi Arabia, a development expected to reshape the tennis calendar in 2028.
The event will likely take place in February, and the ATP reportedly plans to close four or five tournaments to make a room for a one-week tournament that marks the first Masters 1000 extension since the series started almost 40 years ago!
The Russian believes the move carries both significant opportunities and inevitable challenges for the sport. Rublev acknowledged that such an event would bring major investment into tennis.
Look what it MEANS 😜@AndreyRublev97 snaps a five-match losing streak with his 6-1 6-4 win over Fearnley! #RolexParisMasters pic.twitter.com/0TkEHg1Gjm
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It should support prize funds, player bonuses and much-needed infrastructure upgrades across the Tour. For many competitors, these improvements could enhance the quality of tournaments and overall conditions.
All in all, it could provide fresh momentum in a fast-growing market. At the same time, Rublev underlined the concern shared by many – the already packed calendar in the sport that operates between January and November!
With a new Masters 1000 event in a calendar, the question remains where it will fit and how it will impact scheduling, rest and player workload throughout a demanding season.
Balancing tradition with expansion has always been one of tennis' toughest challenges. Andrey's measured approach reflects a broader awareness among the players.
Things are simple for them. While growth is welcome, maintaining the health and balance throughout the season remains equally vital. Rublev discussed the issue after making a winning start at the Paris Masters.
Andrey Rublev, Paris Masters 2025© Stream screenshot
The Russian defeated Jacob Fearnley in straight sets, ending a five-match losing streak.
"To host a Masters 1000 event, Saudi Arabia will allocate a significant amount of money to the development of tennis, which will be used to finance prize money and end-of-year bonuses for players.
They will also use it to build new stadiums for certain tournaments where the number of courts is insufficient. On the one hand, yes, there are advantages. On the other hand, of course, there are disadvantages.
It will be an additional tournament in the calendar, and we do not know when. It's more complicated, but there are always advantages and disadvantages," Andrey Rublev said.
