For a traditional sport like tennis, going the league way was a big step - albeit in different direction. For some, it was akin to sacrilege while for others, it was a beginning of a new and exciting phase. As the inaugural edition of Indian Premier Tennis league (IPTl) winds up, Amit Chaudhary tries to find out the lessons it has taught us.
1. it’s More than an exhibition
Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) president Chris Kermode created a controversy when he called IPTl a 'glorified exhibition'. Whether he jumped the gun or was too wise to predict the future is debatable but during the course of the tournament it became amply clear that it is not merely an exhibition. It is more than that. It has the potential of becoming a big tournament and creating its own niche in the sport.
At one level the IPTl certainly gives the feeling of a frivolous event laced with too many extras (music, cheer girls, new rules etc.) but once the tennis takes over, it is hardcore sport. What separates it from the exhibition matches is the $1million prize. Here you have to earn it. It's not going to go to some charity. It will come to your pocket. The inducement is there to make players put their best foot forward, to show their game and skills, even for just one set.
2. Pride & professionalism brings out the best
The IPTl organizers did a commendable job by managing such an elite pool of players. To bring Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova and others to play is nothing less than a coup. But what made it successful was the professionalism shown by the players. They were here to represent a team and no professional would disappoint his/her teammates, who would sit at the court-side and cheer on, with a half-hearted effort.
And then there is your pride. You would probably have fun on the sidelines and off the court but once there is net between you two, it's all about winning. That's what everyone saw happening between Federer and Djokovic earlier this week. All the fun that they were having on the bench and the big smiles that adorned their faces before the match, everything evaporated as they stepped on to the court. They were replaced by steely expressions as they got into no-holds barred sparring. It wasn't exhibition. It was as serious as it could get.
3. it’s about money
So many times we have heard players complaining about packed schedules, still they were here to play in a tournament that doesn't even give them the ranking points. WhyIJ For easy money, obviously. The success of IPTl proves that it’s not difficult to bring big names to India if there are enough zeroes in the prize money. It must encourage the big corporates who are looking to invest in sports.
4. Audience is the boss
No sport can survive without the support of audience or spectators. Knowing the golden rule, IPTl organisers rightly planned to host the tournament in those cities where the supply of top-class tennis is far behind the demand. And if there are enough eyesballs, sponsors can never be a problem.
5. SOme rules are unnecessary
With all the efforts to finish the matches in fixed time frame, the organisers have probably made it a bit too complicated and difficult for the players. One rule for which most players, including Roger Federer, complained was the 20-second serve rule. Hopefully, the organisers will listen and change some of the rules in the future.