"It's for failed singles players" - Reilly Opelka makes his feelings clear on doubles in online viral rant

Several fans in the tennis community may not appreciate the game of doubles as much as they do singles, but American tennis pro Reilly Opelka believes it should be removed from the ATP Tour entirely.

Opelka has been sidelined with injury for several months in 2023, before making his return last summer. The former World No.17 is known for being vocal on certain subjects, and recently vented his frustrations on the game of doubles in a social media rant.

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Doubles doesn't draw a profit, according to Opelka

The St. Joseph native took to Instagram to make his opinion known on doubles, after a fan called him out on a perceived change of heart towards the sport.

"You once said 'get rid of doubles' when a fan asked you what you would change in tennis," wrote a fan when Opelka apparently spoke out in defense of doubles players. "So why the change of heart towards doubles now?"

"I was being sarcastic, they should 100% get rid of doubles," responded Opelka. "It's for failed singles players, there's no such thing as a doubles specialist.
"They don't sell a single ticket, they take up practice courts/physios/resources. They don't turn a profit and they complain that they don't make enough money. That's pretty greedy if you ask me."

Opelka's last appearance on the ATP Tour was a round of 16 showing at the Delray Beach Open, where he fell to compatriot Brandon Nakashima in three sets.

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