Roger Federer’s former coach hits out at tennis ‘circus’ as another player slams ‘toxic’ sport

Tennis players are increasingly united in their calls for a change to the tournament schedule, with French tennis player Caroline Garcia the latest to confirm she is taking a break from the sport.

Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev have been among the high-profile voices calling for a reduced number of mandatory events in the game, with Garcia’s confirmation that she has ended her year early coming with a graphic message.

“Physically, I’ve been pushing my shoulder to its limit, trying to recover while competing, and it’s just not working. I need more time off to heal properly,” she said.

Mentally, I need a reset. I need to step away from the constant grind of tennis.

“This year, my mindset was toxic. I lost touch with the joy of being a tennis player and became obsessed with rankings and wins.

“I’m exhausted from the anxiety, the panic attacks, the tears before matches. Tired of missing out on family moments and never having a place to truly call home.