Doubles test at Queen’s Club: less time between points, ‘time extensions’ and more | ATP Tour

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Doubles rehearsal at Queen’s Club: less time between points, ‘time extensions’ and more

Find out about all the news that will be implemented in London

June 14, 2024

The first tournament that participated in the 2024 ATP Doubles Trials was the Mutua Madrid Open. Now, the Queen’s Club Cinch Championships will implement a series of changes – with some new features – during next week’s ATP 500.

By testing more changes, the ATP continues to innovate, including reduced match times and creating an improved fan experience at the venue.

Among the changes that will be tested at Queen’s Club include less time between points, adjustments to the times during changes of sides or the use of “time extensions”, among other new features.

“I am excited to see that ATP continues to look for new ways to improve the doubles product and add value to all stakeholders: players, fans, tournaments, broadcast platforms, television and media,” he said. Jamie Murray, tournament director and former No. 1 in the PIF ATP Doubles Rankings. “We love being a part of it, hopefully it will be a positive experience for the players and fans who come to watch the tournament this week at Queen’s.”

There will be 18 seconds between all points (15-3) and 60 seconds in changing sides, with a time announcement after 40 seconds. Each pair may request an extension of time per set to evaluate tactics.

Some Cinch Championships doubles matches will be played during the night to encourage fans to come to the tournament to enjoy doubles after work. There will also be a court dedicated exclusively to doubles.

As happened in Madrid, there will be freedom of movement in the stands and connection with fans will be encouraged.

“Doubles should set a non-stop action, I think reducing timeouts will help improve the product,” Murray said. “I think it’s a positive move for the future.”

The tournament will employ a standard procedure for accessing the doubles draw. However, the pairs matches will begin on Wednesday (the qualifying phase begins on Monday). Singles pairs will cross with doubles specialist pairs in the first round whenever possible.

Next phases of testing will take place in all tournament categories including Gstaad, Hamburg, Kitzbühel, Newport, Toronto, Washington and Winston-Salem.