Overview

• Ackman, 59, partnered with former Grand Slam champion Jack Sock and lost 6-1, 7-5 in the Hall of Fame Open doubles first round, describing the match as a humbling experience marked by stage fright.
• Former world No. 1 Andy Roddick labeled the match “the biggest joke I’ve ever watched in professional tennis,” and tournament director Randy Walker called it the worst professional match he had seen.
• Ackman secured his wildcard through his role as board chair of the Professional Tennis Players Association and personal influence rather than ATP ranking or qualifying results.
• Tournament organizers have not announced changes to ATP Challenger wildcard criteria despite intensified scrutiny over competitive integrity.
• The episode has highlighted the economic pressures and mental health challenges faced by touring professionals outside the top rankings.