LONDON — While Wimbledon is often associated with glamour, prestige, and hefty prize money, the reality for many professional tennis players is far from luxurious. Japan’s Taro Daniel, a seasoned ATP Tour competitor, recently opened up about the financial struggles that come with life as a mid-tier tennis pro—revealing he once "couldn’t afford avocado" and is still grappling with a "whopping credit card bill."
The Hidden Costs of Professional Tennis
Daniel, currently ranked just outside the ATP Top 100, has spent over a decade navigating the grueling circuit. While top-tier players like Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz earn millions in prize money and endorsements, those outside the elite often operate at a loss. "People see the glamour of Wimbledon and think we’re all living the high life," Daniel told The Guardian. "But unless you’re in the top 50, it’s a constant financial battle."
The 31-year-old detailed the harsh economics of the sport:
- Travel Costs: Flights, hotels, and visas for tournaments worldwide can exceed $150,000 annually.
- Coaching Fees: A full-time coach costs between $50,000-$100,000 per year.
- Equipment & Medical: Strings, rackets, physiotherapy, and fitness training add another $30,000+.
"I Ate Instant Noodles for Months"
Daniel’s candid revelations highlight the sacrifices required to stay competitive. "In 2017, after an early exit at the French Open, I had $200 in my account," he admitted. "I survived on instant noodles and skipped tournaments because I couldn’t afford flights." Even basic nutrition became a luxury—"Avocado toast? Forget it."
The financial strain isn’t unique to Daniel. A 2023 ATP survey found that 65% of players ranked 100-200 lose money annually. Prize money is heavily skewed: a first-round Wimbledon loser earns £60,000 ($76,000), but after taxes, coaching splits, and expenses, little remains.
The Credit Card Trap
Daniel’s biggest regret? Racking up credit card debt early in his career. "I maxed out cards to pay for coaching, hoping future winnings would cover it," he said. "Now I’m still paying off 8% interest on $50,000."
A Call for Change
Daniel advocates for reforms to support lower-ranked players:
- Higher Minimum Prize Money: Boost early-round payouts at ATP 250/500 events.
- Subsidized Travel: Partner with airlines for player discounts.
- Mental Health Grants: Financial stress contributes to burnout and anxiety.
The ATP has taken small steps, like increasing Challenger Tour prize pools by 15% in 2024. But Daniel argues more is needed: "Without changes, tennis will lose talented players who simply can’t afford to stay."
The Silver Lining
Despite the challenges, Daniel remains passionate. "I love competing, and moments like playing Centre Court at Wimbledon make it worth it," he reflected. A recent sponsorship deal with a Japanese sports brand has eased some pressure, but his story underscores tennis’s stark financial divide.
As Wimbledon 2024 kicks off, fans will marvel at the spectacle. But behind the scenes, players like Daniel remind us that professional tennis is as much about survival as it is about sport. "Every match I win is one step closer to financial stability," he said. "That’s the real grind."