ATP Unveils 'Baseline', A Pioneering Financial Security Programme For Players

ATP

The ATP has announced Baseline, a transformative financial security programme for ATP players set to launch in 2024 as part of a three-year trial. This pioneering initiative marks a major first in the history of the ATP Tour.

Comprised of three key pillars, Baseline represents a significant step towards ensuring a greater number of players can make a sustainable living from the sport.

The first pillar of the programme is Guaranteed Base Earnings, which guarantees minimum income levels for the Top 250-ranked singles players each season. In case a player's prize money earnings finishes below the guaranteed threshold, the ATP will step in to cover the shortfall. For the 2024 season, these levels are $300,000 (Top 100), $150,000 (101-175) and $75,000 (176-250). This assurance will empower players to plan their seasons with greater certainty, focus on their game and invest in their teams. This includes covering the expenses of coaches and personal physios, as well as travel.

The second pillar focuses on Injury Protection, providing support to players who play fewer than nine ATP Tour and Challenger Tour events in a season due to injury. This progressive initiative includes thresholds set at $200,000 (Top 100), $100,000 (101-175) and $50,000 (176-250) in 2024. This is designed to provide financial security during difficult periods, allowing players to focus on recovery and make a successful return to the game.

The third pillar, Newcomer Investment, provides an additional boost to up-and-coming players as they push on in their professional tennis journey. These rising stars will have access to $200,000 of funding upon breaking into the Top 125 for the first time, paid in advance of the following season and offset against prize money earnings. This will facilitate players’ investment into their teams and resources as they break onto the ATP Tour.

"We’re beyond excited to introduce Baseline," said Andrea Gaudenzi, ATP Chairman. "This initiative is a complete shift in the way tennis approaches player finances. It represents our commitment to the players and their careers - fostering an environment where they can thrive and elevate the sport. It is also just the start of what we hope to achieve. Our ambition is to expand this game-changing initiative in the years to come.”

"Being a professional tennis player comes with incredible rewards, but it's also a challenging journey, especially for those starting their careers,” said Grigor Dimitrov, ATP Player Advisory Council Member. “Baseline is a game-changer. Knowing that we have a safety net through the minimum guarantee and injury protection pillars gives us peace of mind, allowing us to focus on our game and strive for success. This truly shows the ATP's commitment to the players and the future of our sport."

Between 30 and 45 players are expected to receive financial support through Baseline each season, with eligibility determined based on a range of criteria. This includes a player’s ranking, career prize money earnings, and number of events played. The 2024-26 trial period will serve as an initial proof of concept, with potential to expand funding in future.