Federer, Nadal, and Djokovic have already agreed to play it. But what is the ATP Cup? And do we need it?
The ATP have announced the top 18 countries in the ATP Cup standings as qualifiers for the inaugural ATP Cup which will be held from 3-12 January in Brisbane, Perth, and Sydney.
This is meant to be a “spectacular launch” of the 2020 ATP tour season according to a recent ATP press release. Every member of the Top 10 in the ATP Rankings and 27 of the Top 30 have committed to play the tournament.
Check out the ATP Cup official website.
The ATP Cup – What is the format of the competition?
The ATP Cup is an annual 24-country team competition staged in coordination with Tennis Australia. The tournament will be played over six days in Brisbane, Perth and Sydney. Eight teams will then advance to the final eight four-day knockout stages in Sydney. The tournament features US$15 million prize money and a maximum of 750 singles and 250 doubles ATP Rankings points.
The top two players for each country are committed to play, subject to change based on the ATP Rankings at the second entry deadline on 13 November, when remaining team members (up to an additional three players) will gain acceptance. Additionally, on that date, a further five countries will qualify to compete at the 24-country ATP Cup based on the ranking of their No. 1 singles player. Each tie will comprise of two singles and one doubles match.
Comments about the ATP Cup
Chris Kermode, ATP Executive Chairman and President, said: “We’re delighted to see such a star-studded player field lining up for the inaugural ATP Cup. Our belief was that week one in the calendar, together with Tennis Australia, would work best for player scheduling. Having the top players competing in this new global event is critical, and the ATP Cup looks set to kick off the ATP Tour season in a big way in 2020.”
Craig Tiley, Tennis Australia CEO, said: “This is an incredibly exciting time for tennis fans. We are thrilled with the amazing support the ATP Cup has attracted from the players. This event will globally launch the tennis season in a manner that will enthrall fans and entice the next generation to our sport. January can’t come quick enough.”
What do you think about the ATP Cup? Do we need another team competition along the Davis Cup and the Laver Cup?
