ATP has begun testing a new procedure for ball changes at Challenger series tournaments. The decision was made following numerous complaints from players about the quality of the equipment. One of those who raised this issue most frequently was Russian player Daniil Medvedev, as reported by “Sovsport.”
Currently, balls are changed for the first time after the seventh game, and then every nine games thereafter. Under the trial, the first change will be made after the fifth game, with all subsequent changes occurring every seven games.
This issue has been discussed for years now. Tennis players argue that balls wear out quickly, become heavier, and significantly slow down the pace of play. In 2025, ATP attempted to address the situation, but a full transition to a unified standard was not possible due to existing tournament contracts with various manufacturers.
Medvedev has repeatedly criticized the current system. During the 2025 tournament in Dubai, he stated:
“I don’t understand why balls in the ATP Tour aren’t changed every 7 games, or at least every 5 games. This is a real mystery to me.”
The most notable incident was his emotional outburst at the 2026 tournament in Rotterdam.
“These balls are terrible… Are they round? Are you sure?… No one should buy them. We shouldn’t be promoting a tennis ball that isn’t round…,” Medvedev said.
Similar complaints have previously been voiced by Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic. According to the players, the quality of balls has declined since the pandemic, causing them to become heavier more quickly. Tennis players believe this not only affects the speed of the game but also increases strain on wrists and elbows, raising the risk of injury.
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