Leading men's doubles players have written to the ATP board and management calling on it to reconsider plans to shrink doubles competitions and move prize money to singles. The letter was signed by 137 active players, 33 former players and 20 federations, Reuters reported on Tuesday 27 October 2026.

What the players say is at stake

The group says the current plans would shift about $20 million in prize money from doubles to singles and cut a significant number of professional opportunities for doubles specialists. That $20 million figure is the players' letter's figure, not an ATP-confirmed figure. The players wrote that the shift would make it much harder for talented players to build and sustain a doubles career, and that a healthy professional sport cannot rely solely on a small group of top stars. Dutch player Sem Verbeek said the ATP should look after the interests of all its members.

The ATP's position

The ATP said earlier in October it was reviewing potential changes to doubles draw sizes as part of its plans for 2028 and beyond, with freed-up funds going to singles qualifying and early-round prize money. Plans under discussion include cutting doubles teams at elite ATP Masters 1000 events to 16 from 32, with smaller fields below that level. The ATP said doubles will continue to be a core part of the tour, that discussions would continue with the Player Advisory Council, and that it holds year-end meetings in Turin next month. Reuters said it had contacted the ATP for comment. This story rests on the players' letter and the ATP's stated position as reported; it is not presented as multiple independent newsroom confirmations.

Sources: Reuters; ATP statements as reported, 27 October 2026.