Time limits for tennis players? Time for a response - a request to the ATP & ITF

The shot clock was quite successful at the inaugural IPTL held last November in Asia. if private individuals can pull this off, I dont see how ATP or ITF cannot implement same successfully on tour. ATP/ITF, Let your rules be transparent to all thank you

The application of the time violation rule has been imposed more regularly on one particular person since Wimbledon last year when Federer highlighted the issue at press conference at the beginning of the tournament, which led to other players also joining in and a big thing was made of the time violation issue - in essence, it was quite clear that they were all referring to Nadal. The matter became a bit of a big thing with the presenters discussing it and it seemed that there was a bit of a "witch-hunt" against Nadal. Since then, umpires have targeted Nadal. Given the weight Federer's comments would undoubtedly carry, the ATP probably feel they have to "do something about it". However, as many here have commented, I feel the rule needs to be completely looked at and consideration should be given to length of rallies, etc. Curtailing the time players require in between points after lengthy rallies will certainly diminish their ability to continue to play at their best and play long rallies, which bring so much enjoyment to tennis fans. The rule needs to be reassessed and common sense must prevail.

The time violation rule should apply to all players, and in order that this is done fairly, would it not be possible for a time keeping device to be placed on court where it can clearly be seen by the chair umpire, or another ATP official, and the players. In applying this rule discretion should be given as to the length of a rally. In the event that a rally lasts say more than 20 strokes then time should be allowed for both players to recover.

The time needs to be re-evaluated and extended particularly for grand slams. These folk give it their all and need a few extra seconds to recover. Also, the inconsistent application of the rule is a huge problem and at times no consideration given to the situation when it is applied....i.e. can break the rule for 13 games then suddenly on 14th game point it is applied....what about all the occasions before this?

ATP & ITF, please scrap this ridiculous rule! It is spoiling our enjoyment of our favourite sport, tennis. We love to see players thinking and strategizing on how to get the better of their opponent and we love long rallies. They are so exciting to watch! Giving the players some extra seconds to catch their breath after long rallies should be allowed and players should not be penalised. The rule is really spoiling the game!

The time violation rule is not applied consistently .Extra time does not affect enjoyment of the game. However ,racket abuse and foul language sets a very bad examole to children.

Scrap that rule pulse!

the unfairness has to stop especially the visible picking on one particular player at crucial times in play.

I'd much more rather see more calls and fines for profanity and racquet abuse.

There seems no demonstrable need for this rule at all, especially in best-of-3-sets matches. However, if this rule is to continue, it must be fairly applied to all players, consistently employed in all matches and assessed early, not held until a critical point is reached. Further, time-limit clocks on court are needed——everyone can then see that fair play is observed. Let's return tennis to its old position as #1 Fair Play Sport. Currently, it's hiding in the corner, nursing a black eye or two.

The rule needs to be fair to all players, and not subject to the umpires whims and fancies.

All we want is consistency

Fair is fair. Enforce all the time and not selectively at crucial points and not with selected players only.

all we ask for is consistent, fair and sensible application of this rule.

action is long overdue.

Cut Rafa some slack

It's obvious to tennis pros & fans this rule is applied arbitrarily. Many famed pros in the sport [John McEnroe, Darren Cahill, Jim Courier, etc] have argued about this rule as there is no clear "moment" when the serve begins, so how is the time decided? -- thus the violations are always at the discretion of an umpire. Over the past year or two, it's very difficult to interpret when and how this rule is applied. As others have said, when top tier players smash racquets & curse vile things [specifically in Serbian which many umpires don't understand], the player is given no violation or warning. Player who curses in English or Spanish receives a warning.. As for the time violations, it's obvious Nadal is now targeted. In many, many matches his opponents have not been warned when they, too, go over the limit --- particularly after long rallies. It's time now to make it fair and set up a shot clock or some very clear cut way to show the serve times.

So much of the excitement, entertainment and electricity of a great match is built up just as much IN BETWEEN the points as during them. Particularly in grand slams. Time limits are making the game stuffy and rigid.

Please don't destroy tennis.

I think smashing rackets and bad temper is worse