Thought this thread was going to be about Paula Badosa at first , but I guess while disappointing for those planning to go, it perhaps makes sense. At least there'll be atmosphere in the main courts.
Might also be an ATP directive. The argument for lowering points in the Challenger events was to encourage players to play up and play qualifying in Main tour events.
Might also be an ATP directive. The argument for lowering points in the Challenger events was to encourage players to play up and play qualifying in Main tour events.
But why would that make them move this year to giving tickets as opposed to keeping it private?
I'm going for (a) it is Jamie or
(b) it was thanks to our little forum protests last year - I sent at least four emails to the car sponsors, and I know a couple of other forumites sent emails too
You never know ..... the guy at Cinch was quite sympathetic, he hadn't realised it used to be open, and was rather embarrassed by the whole thing
Yes very good chance it has been a change of plan by the tournament based on those two points.
However if the ATP want players to play up and play qualifying then one would assume the ATP would ask tournaments to treat it as part of the tournament and give it the same treatment.
I also wonder if Queens wants to be part of any additional 1000 level events or, more likely, the proposed premier tour of the top 12 or so events plus slams, it needs to be more accessible, well attended etc and opening up qualies plays to that agenda? Just a thought .
The Premier tour will happen, its just when and who is running it
I have just bought a ground pass/unreserved Ct1 ticket for the Wednesday. Would have preferred the Tuesday, but sold out already.
Still hoping for a ticket for Qualies too!
Eastbourne being downgraded was on the cards once Bad Homburg was upgraded to a 500. Two 500s in the same week is not sustainable and goes against the WTA's objective of having the top players playing together. Bad Homburg's upgrade is probably part of the same grass court review that has led to these changes as it is a AELTC event. A 500 in the week after Roland Garros is not going to attract a top field though. Nottingham struggles to attract a suitable field for its level as a 250 in the same week.
-- Edited by Lambda on Thursday 7th of March 2024 09:02:39 AM