Tomic’s on side with injury scourge
GOLD Coast’s Bernard Tomic has thrown his support behind a rule that is transforming grand slam tennis.
Wimbledon was compromised last year when eight players retired mid-match in the first round, prompting officials to introduce a rule to counter the scourge. Last year, players who took to the court aware they were injured and likely to retire, claimed the full prizemoney. This year, players have the option of withdrawing once they are on site and are paid half the first round prizemoney if they don’t play.
They are replaced by lucky losers from qualifying, who share the prizemoney, worth about $30,000 this season.
If injured competitors try to play and are unable to perform to expectations, they can be heavily fined.
An ill Mischa Zverev was fined $58,000 at the Australian Open after struggling during an opening-round loss.
Tomic was among nine lucky losers to be given a second chance at Wimbledon.
“I now know with the rule change, there is going to be a lot more lucky losers,” he said.
“I think it’s a good rule. You saw nine or 10 lucky losers in Paris and here there are seven.
“Last year, they lost a few matches on centre (court). It’s better for the tournament.”