Given the overwhelming popularity of fantasy sports in the US, it was only a matter of time before professional tennis got involved. ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals) Fantasy was formally introduced on Monday, March 23, but how it works remains to be seen.
Grand Slam champion and retired player Dominic Thiem is the person the ATP tapped to help with the launch. Last week, Thiem teased that he was rejoining the tennis world in a different capacity. Many fans thought that meant he was going to coach a player.
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According to the hype video for ATP Fantasy, Thiem is coaching, in a different capacity than fans hoped: his ATP Fantasy team.
How does ATP Fantasy work
The details are somewhat limited except that a signup is required to learn more.
Thiem mentioned that ATP Fantasy begins with the Monte Carlo Open which starts April 4. He said it was free to play, and friends can challenge each other.
Perhaps it works somewhat like a March Madness bracket with ATP Fantasy owners picking the players they believe will advance to the latter stages of the tournament and hopefully win.
At the moment, ATP Fantasy only applies to men’s singles tennis.
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ATP Fantasy could be fun
NFL Fantasy Football is big business, and ATP Fantasy has potential. It is unclear if all tournaments in the 11-month schedule are included, how a player wins, and what the prizes may be.
Tennis is trying to become more mainstream, and this seems like a good avenue to pursue. Fans want more details readily available without committing to a signup. The ATP and Thiem need to make follow-up videos providing more information.
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