ATP Men is Tennis Tour Introduces Foundation Program to Guarantee New Income and Opportunities . A Platform Every Player Wants to Try
Baseline Program
In 2024, the ATP Men’s Tennis Tour launched a groundbreaking financial initiative called Baseline , with a total of $1.3 million allocated to 26 players. The program aims to provide a minimum annual income to players ranked in the world’s top 250 , helping them overcome the financial challenges inherent in a professional tennis career.
Objectives of the Baseline Program
The Baseline program is more than just a financial aid. It is designed as a solid foundation to help players focus on developing their skills and achieving better results without worrying about financial pressure . According to the ATP, players participating in the program will receive financial support across three different categories.
Payment Structure
Among the 26 players receiving support:
- Seventeen players are entitled to a guaranteed minimum income, which helps fill the gap if their prize money falls below a certain threshold.
- Three players receive injury protection, which helps players whose participation is limited due to health issues.
- Seven players are supported through a rookie portfolio, encouraging newcomers to the top-125.
Benefits for Tennis Players
Bernabé Zapata Miralles , one of the players receiving the minimum wage, shared his thoughts: “As a professional player, you are always focused on results. Relying on your performance to succeed can be difficult , especially when faced with obstacles such as injuries. Now we have the financial freedom we need to improve without undue pressure.”
How the Program Works
The ATP determines the level of financial support based on the ranking at the end of 2023 and the expected income for 2024. Players whose income does not meet the threshold will receive compensation for the difference:
- $300,000 for top 100 players.
- $150,000 for players ranked 101 to 175.
- $75,000 for players ranked 176 to 250.
Enhanced Support in the Future
This program will expand in future seasons. For example, in 2025, support will increase to $200,000 for players ranked 101–175 and $100,000 for those ranked 176–250. This reflects the ATP’s commitment to building sustainable careers in professional tennis.
Comparing Tennis Players’ Earnings
To put that into perspective, world No. 1 Jannik Sinner is set to earn $16.9 million in prize money in 2024. Meanwhile, 100th-ranked Federico Coria is set to earn just $590,000 , and 250th-ranked Abdullah Shelbayh is set to earn nearly $205,000 in singles. These numbers show the stark disparity in earnings between players at different ranking levels.
Comments from ATP President Andrea Gaudenzi
“We provide players with the financial support they need to overcome challenges and build sustainable careers,” said Andrea Gaudenzi , former ATP player and current ATP president. Players must apply to be considered for the Baseline program . The ATP expects to see an increase in participation, following the more than 100 players who have already benefited by 2024. Expanding the program’s reach will strengthen its ability to support more players.
The Meaning of Financial Aid
Programs like Baseline are essential in the competitive world of professional tennis. Players not only face pressure to perform at their best, but also deal with financial hardships. This initiative helps ease that burden, creating a safe environment for players to develop their talents.
Towards a Bright Future
The ATP Guaranteed Income Program is not only a financial innovation , but also a milestone in supporting tennis players around the world. By expanding the Baseline program, the ATP is reinforcing its commitment to building a sustainable professional tennis ecosystem where every player has the opportunity to thrive. As more young players enter the world of tennis, programs like Baseline will play a vital role in helping them overcome challenges and achieve their dreams.
