Yeah.. this is absolutely ridiculous. They could not even HAVE women's tennis, and the men would still pack the stadiums.
I am an avid player myself. And I LOVE the game. But even I - do not enjoy watching the women near as much as the men. Several years ago Serena Williams ran her mouth about being able to beat any guy over 200th - and she played a guy ranked 210 or something and got her ass KICKED. And Serena, like her or hate her, is an incredible women's player.
Put that in perspective. That guy - is 200th.... he is not even a major men's player. THAT is how different the best woman is - compared to the best man. They are not even close.And very few if any of the women would be able to hang in a five setter. Women's tennis is slower, the points are less exciting, and their skills are below the men. It is just is what it is.
An avid player eh? Very cool. Did you play in school? I was first singles in high school, probably reached a 3.5-4.0 level. Years ago I played in a 3.0 men's league, which probably wasn't entirely fair. I probably belonged in more of a 3.5 league. However, I evened it out with my double-fault tendencies. I'm not tall, but I've got a cannon serve.. I just am very inaccurate on my second serves.
I've been able to visit the big tournament in Cincinnati right before the US Open 4-5 times. I've seen nearly everyone there is to see: Andre Agassi (the guy I modeled my game after), Pete Sampras, Patrick Rafter, Lleyton Hewitt, Roger Federer, Andy Murray, Goran Ivanisevic (my fav), and yes, Serena Williams. I was able to watch Roger and Serena warm up courtside. They are absolute technicians. Walking backboards. Every stroke so efficient and consistent. It's amazing to watch.