Monte Carlo, April 2025 – In the run-up to the prestigious Monte Carlo Masters, legendary Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal has shaken up the world of sport with a proposal that not only breaks with tradition, but also threatens to radically change the way professional tennis is played.
During a press conference held last Monday, Nadal announced that he has requested that the ATP introduce a new rule prohibiting the use of real-time assistive technology during official matches. According to the Mallorcan, this practice would disrupt the “natural competitive spirit of the sport.”
“The essence of tennis is based on intuition, preparation, and the ability to adapt to your opponent on the court. If we start relying on data transmitted instantly, we lose that magic. Tennis must not become a battle of algorithms,” he declared firmly.
The proposal contemplates a complete ban on tablets, smartwatches, headphones, or any device from which coaches can send strategic data during the match. Although it is not yet standard practice in all tournaments, some players have already begun experimenting with this technology at unofficial events or exhibitions.
However, Nadal’s initiative has not been well received by everyone. In fact, some of the most prominent figures on the circuit have expressed their immediate opposition, arguing that the evolution of the sport must include technology as a complementary tool, not a threat.
World number one, Italian Jannik Sinner, was one of the first to speak out against it. “I respect Rafael, but tennis must move with the times. Technology doesn’t replace talent; it complements it. If other sports have been able to adapt, we can too,” he commented.
Alexander Zverev and Daniil Medvedev also joined the criticism, pointing out that real-time technology can improve the player experience and allow for smarter in-match adjustments, potentially even reducing the number of injuries from overexertion or poor tactical decisions.
It was even leaked that during the pre-tournament players’ meeting, Nadal had a tense exchange with Medvedev, accusing him of “trusting a screen more than his own instinct.”
Meanwhile, the ATP has confirmed formal acceptance of the proposal, although it has decided not to put it to a vote for now, given the high level of disagreement among players. According to sources close to the organization, a minimum consensus would be necessary for such a significant change to even be considered.
Fans have also been divided. On social media, thousands of Nadal’s followers have applauded his attempt to preserve the traditional character of tennis, while others accuse him of trying to hinder the sport’s progress due to his age and recent physical difficulties.
For his part, Nadal hasn’t backed down or softened his stance. “If protecting tennis means making some people uncomfortable, then so be it. This sport has given me everything, and I have a duty to defend it,” he stated before leaving the press room.
The controversy continues to grow and promises to become one of the central themes of the season. While awaiting an official response from the ATP, the question now is whether this proposal represents Nadal’s last major act of fighting for tennis… or simply a sign that the sport is changing faster than some are willing to accept.
