Athletes are facing unprecedented physical strain from a packed sports calendar as organizations prioritize profits. With players getting minimal time off, injuries like ACL tears are on the rise, leading to calls for changes to the current system to prioritize health over profit.
Athletes in various sports are increasingly feeling the strain of an overloaded schedule as governing bodies prioritize profit over player well-being. For instance, tennis star Carlos Alcaraz expressed concern over the exhausting nature of an already packed calendar, having played 52 matches in 38 weeks. With no significant off-season, the pressure mounts as the ATP prepares for the 2025 season to commence just days after the current one ends. In football, UEFA and FIFA are expanding tournaments to maximize revenue, resulting in players like Manchester City’s Rodri facing grueling match schedules. Reports reveal that players now get as little as 12% of the year off, far below recommended health standards. Rodri, who suffered an ACL injury attributed to his heavy workload, pointed out that exceeding 50 matches significantly impacts performance levels. The grim reality that players can no longer cope with such demands raises questions about the sustainability of sports’ relentless profit-seeking mentality. Solutions must address the physical toll faced by athletes amidst the sport’s insatiable hunger for revenue.
The article discusses the increasing demands placed on athletes due to an overcrowded sports calendar driven by profit motives from governing bodies like ATP, UEFA, and FIFA. The burden of playing numerous matches results in significant physical strain, prompting concerns about player welfare and injury risks.
The overwhelming increase in matches and tournaments in sports is pushing athletes to their limits, causing injuries and burnout. As organizations chase profits, it is crucial to reconsider the implications on player health and performance. Balancing the business of sports with athlete well-being is necessary to ensure both the sport’s future and its stars can endure.
Original Source: sportstar.thehindu.com
Leave a Reply