Is 5 Too Much?
While there have been some compelling 5-set comebacks at the AO, is that really the best length of a match – for both the players and the viewers?
Match Enders – first a recap of the major’s match enders:
The Australian Open: Tiebreaker at 6-6 in games in final set: First to 10 points, win by 2
The French Open: No final set tiebreaker; Play continues until player wins by two games
Wimbledon: Tiebreaker at 12-12 games; First to 7 points, win by 2
The US Open: Tiebreaker at 6-6 in games: First to 7 points, win by 2
Five is Too Much
I have long lobbied for senior tennis tournaments in the “older age groups” (70+?), to do away with the full third set in singles and play a Match Tie Breaker at one set apiece. Because it is both dangerous to one’s health (of which I am now acutely aware!) and in most cases, the winner becomes a loser in their next match.
It is also very challenging to sit in front of the TV for 3-4 hours to watch one tennis match. It would have to be a very compelling match to demand that much time and attention; like trying to watch a low-scoring hockey match (sorry Willy);
So here is a unique proposal from senior tournament veteran Winder Bill:
“In watching the AO, I have come to the conclusion that 5 set matches are not worth it as the winner is often too limited afterward (Thiem a recent example).
“However, two out of three sets does not give enough time for a better player to overcome a hot lesser player. There is so much depth in the men’s game to allow the luck or unsustainable high level play to determine the match. My suggestion: 10-point tiebreaker at 2-2 in sets. This would leave the winner with a little more gas in the tank to representatively play the next match.”
So, what do YOU think of Winder’s “Modest Proposal” (special recognition to anyone who can identify my literary reference WITHOUT Googling it)? Or how Grand Slam matches should end?
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