Ground Strokes

String Tension Loss

2011-08-02T14:22:00.000-07:00

Strings start losing tension as soon as the machine stops its pull. "Creep", or tension loss resulting from the string's continuing elongation, can be measured in all cases: all you need is the proper equipment. Once you know what youu're losing, you can get a good handle on when to restring your racquet.
Why to Care
As strings lose tension, the launch angle of your shots changes: the ball stays on the strings longer, and comes off at a different spot in your swing. This affects how high and how far the ball flies. In other words, it affects your ability to control the location of your shots.
Everyone can absorb a certain amount of tension loss without a dramatic effect on ball control. Top players (top high school, college and pro players, along with high-level club players) will probably start noticing the diffreence at about a 10-15% loss in original string bed stiffness. Good recreational players and high schoolers will probably be OK in the 15-20% range. Lower-level recreational players, while they may not know it, will be affected at 20-25% lossses in tension.
Once you notice that your shots are flying a little long, it would be wise to have your string tension checked. A good stringer will have some way to determine string tension loss over time ("pinging" the racquet by their ear is NOT one), so he/she can better advise you on your options.
Whether they use a Stringmeter, Beers ert300, Stringway Stringlab, or Babolat RDC (the best, in my opinion), a quality racquet technician will be able to look in his records, tell you the original string bed stiffness, and see how much you have lost since the racquet was first strung. Many times, however, knowing how our strings react to tension will help us know before it's too late.
Different Strings, Different Losses
Below is a list of data I've taken on about 90 string jobs I've done recently, using different racquet and string combinations. From these jobs, the average tension loss in the first 24 hours was 8.95% (this is why many pros string their racquets every day). The best and worst strings at holding tension are in ALL CAPS. While there are a few surprises, a general consensus was found: natural gut strings generally provide the best tension maintenance (this makes them a better value than their price might suggest), while polyester-based strings (with a couple of exceptions) tended to lose their tension faster (a couple of polys showed low tension loss after 24 hours, but this is probably due to a loss of resilience). Solid-core and multifilament synthetics were mostly in the middle.
Brand Model String Tension RDC SBS 24 hrs Diff % Loss
Babolat P/D Cortex Gosen Micro 16 56 66 62 4 6.1
Babolat P/D Roddick Tecnifibre Biphase 16 60 70 63 7 10
Babolat P/S Tour Babolat Addiction 16 58 74 68 6 8.1
Dunlop 300G Tecnifibre NRG2 16 52 60 56 4 6.7
Dunlop 300G Tecnifibre Biphase 16 53 62 58 4 6.5
Dunlop C-Max 108 Prince Syngut DF 17 64 80 75 5 6.3
Dunlop Max OS 115 Gamma TNT2 16 57 71 65 6 8.5
Fischer M Motion Tecnifibre NRG2 16 55 65 59 6 9.2
Fischer Pro No. 1 Tecnifibre NRG2 17 56 63 57 6 9.5
Fischer XLite 98 Prince Lightning XX 16 58 69 64 5 7.3
Gamma Tour 330X Gamma Zo Verve 17 41 46 41 5 10.9
Gamma Tour 330X Head Sonic Pro 17 38 35 32 3 8.6
Head Airflow 1 Alpha Prodigy 16 48 48 41 7 14.6
Head Airflow 1 Wilson NXT 16 48 49 46 3 6.1
Head Airflow 3 Prince Lightning XX 17 48 50 44 6 12
Head F/P Rad MP VS TEAM 15L/MICRO 16 55 76 72 4 5.3
Head M/G Extreme Head C3 Rocket 16 53 61 55 6 9.8
Head M/G Extreme T/S Cyclone Tri/NRG2 16 55/58 65 59 6 9.2
Head M/G Ext Pro TECNIFIBRE BIPHASE 17 55 61 58 3 4.9
Head M/G Mojo Head C3 Rocket 17 55 63 56 7 11.1
Head M/G Monster Head FXP Power 16 55 63 56 7 11.1
Head M/G PresPro Wilson NXT Max 16 57 70 65 5 7.1
Head M/G Radical Prince Lightning XX 16 55 62 56 6 9.7
Head Ti.Rad OS Tecnifibre Biphase 18 59 69 63 6 8.7
Head Ti.S6 Gosen Micro 16 56/53 64 58 6 9.4
Prince S/P Black Alpha Firecable 16 55 60 55 5 8.3
Prince S/P Black Tecnifibre TGV 16 57 60 56 4 6.7
Prince S/P Blue Alpha Firecable 16 57 62 58 4 6.5
Prince S/P Blue BOW BRAND PRO/NRG 16 53 49 47 2 4.1
Prince S/P Red Tecnifibre Multifeel 16 60 64 59 5 7.8
Prince NXGrap MP LUXILON ALU POWER 47 52 44 8 15.4
Prince TT Hornet OS Gamma Syngut 15L 68 80 75 5 6.3
Prince Warrior MP Prince Syngut 16 DF 50 55 50 5 9.1
PKennex Ionic Ki-30 Gamma TNT2 17 58 67 62 5 7.5
Topspin Xtreme 100 AG 17 55 65 58 7 10.8
Topspin Xtreme 100 Prince Lightning XX 16 55 66 60 6 9.1
Volkl DNX V1 MP Tecnifibre Biphase 16 53 70 65 5 7.1
Volkl Tour 8 MP RAB Sensorfibre 16 53 66 60 6 9.1
Wilson BLX Pro Tour ASHAWAY COMPOSITE XT PRO 58 74 70 4 5.4
Wilson BLX 6.1/95 18x20 Alpha Firecable 16 54 61 56 5 8.2
Wilson BLX 6.1/95 18x20 Prince Nat Gut 16 42 51 45 6 11.8
Wilson BLX 6.1/95 18x20 Wilson Gut 17/Micro 16 42 52 46 6 11.5
Wilson HTour 95 Alpha Comfort Plus 16 55 66 60 6 9.1
Wilson HTour 95 ALPHA ELEMENT 16 55 65 57 8 12.3
Wilson HTour 95 Alpha Firecable 16 55 63 56 7 11.1
Wilson HTour 95 Alpha Gut 2000 17 55 67 61 6 9
Wilson HTour 95 ALPHA PRODIGY 16 55 65 57 8 12.3
Wilson HTour 95 Alpha Sphere 16 55 71 64 7 9.9
Wilson HTour 95 ASHAWAY COMPOSITE XL PRO 55 60 57 3 5
Wilson HTour 95 Ashaway Dynamite Soft 17 55 61 56 5 8.2
Wilson HTour 95 BABOLAT N.VY 16 55 68 59 9 13.2
Wilson HTour 95 Babolat RPM Blast 130 55 62 57 5 8.1
Wilson HTour 95 Babolat VF Int.Tour 18 55 71 63 8 11.3
Wilson HTour 95 Gamma Asterisk 17 55 67 61 6 9
Wilson HTour 95 Gamma Challenger SG 16 55 69 61 8 11.6
Wilson HTour 95 Gamma Live Wire Pro 16 55 65 59 6 9.2
Wilson HTour 95 Gamma TNT2 17 55 69 61 8 11.6
Wilson HTour 95 Gamma TNT2 Tour 16 55 66 59 7 10.6
Wilson HTour 95 GAMMA ZO VERVE 17 55 65 62 3 4.6
Wilson HTour 95 Genesis Heptonic 17 55 61 57 4 6.6
Wilson HTour 95 Gosen Powermaster II Spin 55 65 58 7 10.8
Wilson HTour 95 Head FXP 16 55 69 63 6 8.7
Wilson HTour 95 HEAD SONIC PRO 17 55 59 56 3 5.1
Wilson HTour 95 Iso-Speed Energetic 16 55 59 52 7 11.7
Wilson HTour 95 Kirschbaum P2 16L 55 62 57 52 5 9.1
Wilson HTour 95 Kirschbaum Pro Line I 18 55 64 58 6 9.4
Wilson HTour 95 Kirschbaum Spiky Shark 16L 55 58 54 4 6.9
Wilson HTour 95 Luxilon AluPower 55 61 56 5 8.2
Wilson HTour 95 Luxilon AluPower Fluoro 55 61 56 5 8.2
Wilson HTour 95 Luxilon Supersense 55 60 55 5 8.3
Wilson HTour 95 Luxilon Savage Lime 55 61 56 5 8.2
Wilson HTour 95 Prince Lightning XX 16 55 72 64 8 11.1
Wilson HTour 95 Prince Lightning XX Spin 55 66 61 5 7.6
Wilson HTour 95 Prince Premier LT 16 55 66 59 7 10.6
Wilson HTour 95 Prince Twisted 16L 55 61 56 5 8.2
Wilson HTour 95 RAB Sensorfibre 16 55 69 62 7 10.1
Wilson HTour 95 VOLKL V-ICON NAT GUT 16 55 57 55 2 3.5
Wilson HTour 95 Weiss Cannon Explosiv! 16 55 65 61 4 6.2
Wilson HTour 95 Yonex Poly Tour 16L 55 56 50 6 10.7
Wilson HTour 95 Yonex Tour Super 850 55 70 62 8 11.4
Wilson [K]sixtwo Alpha Element 16 57 62 56 6 9.7
Wilson [K]sixtwo Ashaway Comp XL Pro 60 63 59 4 6.3
Wilson [K]Zen Team RAB Sensorfibre 16 55 62 56 6 9.7
Wilson n6 MP WILSON SENSATION 16 51 55 47 8 14.6
Wilson n6.1 95 16x18 Tecnifibre Multi-Feel 16 57 63 59 4 6.3
Wilson nTour 95 Ashaway Kevlar/Gosen Micro 55 79 73 6 7.6
What this data tells me is that it's best to invest in quality stirngs for longer-lasting performance. Paying $60-plus for a set of gut may be worth it if you're not a string-breaker, as it will maintain tension and playability longer. Also, if you're wanting to switch to poly strings for more durability, remember the loss of tension and control that comes with it. You may be better off using a standard synthetic or Kevlar hybrid.

2011-03-16T18:48:00.000-07:00

Get a Grip: Making Your Tennis Better Through Proper Grip Maintenance
With all the attention given to high-tech frame designs and the latest tour string
trends, tennis players have, for years, shortchanged one of the most important parts of their racquets: the grip. By understanding what it can do for you and how to choose them correctly, you can make a major impact on your game and help prevent injury.

Why Care?

Why should you care about your grip or its size? It’s the main line of
communication between you and your racquet, for one, and it has a great deal to say about the health of you arm, for another. Picking properly, and maintaining your choices, should be of vital importance.

Not Created Equal

Almost every replacement grip made today has a polyurethane outer layer,
providing color and tackiness (and possibly a raised rib or other texture), and a foam inner layer with padding and moisture absorption properties. Where they part company is how, and in what amounts, these details are executed.
Chart #1 shows the bare handle sizes of many different racquets, along with the
size stated on the frame. As you can see, not every 4 3/8 grip measures the same
underneath: the remaining size is taken up by the grip. Chart #2 shows the “build-up effect” of several popular replacement grips. Choose your replacement grips carefully, and you’ll keep the performance characteristics you desire.

Chart 1: Bare handle sizes of several popular racquets, in inches
Brand Model Grip Size Bare Handle Size
Babolat Pure Drive MP 4 1/2 4 1/4
Dunlop Revelation Tour MP 4 1/2 4 1/4
Head Flexpoint 4 4 3/8 4
FXP Rad Team 4 3/8 4 1/16
FP Rad Tour 4 1/2 4 1/4
i.X6 OS 4 3/8 4 1/16
MicroGEL Extreme4 3/8 4 1/16
Ti.Laser 4 1/4 4
Ti.S5 4 1/2 4 3/16
Ti.S6 4 3/8 4 1/8
Prince More Control DB 4 3/8 4
O3 Hybrid Hornet4 3/8 4 1/16
O3 Hybrid Shark 4 3/8 4
Shark DB OS 4 3/8 4 1/16
Tour Diablo XP 4 5/8 4 5/16
Tour NXGraphite 4 1/2 4 5/16
TT Scream OS 4 1/4 3 15/16
Pro-Kennex Ionic Ki-15 4 5/8 4 5/16
Ionic Ki-30 OS 4 1/2 4 1/4
Kinetic Pro 5g 4 5/8 4 5/16
Laver Heritage 4 1/2 4 1/8
Volkl C9 Pro 4 3/8 4 1/8
Wilson HyperHammer 6.3 4 5/8 4 3/8
Hyper PS 6.1 4 5/8 4 5/16
Hyper PS 6.5 4 5/8 4 3/8
[K]Four 105 4 1/2 4 3/16
[K]Five 108 4 1/2 4 1/4
n1 4 1/4 3 15/16
4 3/8 4
nsixone 95 4 1/4 4
4 3/8 4 1/16
nTour 95 4 1/4 4
4 1/2 4 1/4
Yonex SRQ600 Ti Long 4 3/8 4 1/8
Ultimum RQTi250 4 3/8 4 1/8

Chart 2: Handle build-up effect of several popular replacement grips, in inches
Brand Model Build-up Effect
Babolat Air Touch 1/2"
Perfcushion 3/8"
Syntec 3/8"
Gamma Hi-Tech 5/16"
Hi-Tech Gel 3/8"
Gamma Pro Lite 5/16"
Gosen MG-20 3/16"
Head Hydrosorb 3/8"
Prince Air Cushion Fit 7/16"
DuraPerf Contour3/8"
DuraPro+ 3/8"
DuraSoft + 1/2"
Duratac 5/16"
Wilson [K]Grip 3/8"
[K]ontrol 1/4"
Micro Dry Comf 7/16"
Micro Dry Feel 3/8"
Micro Dry Max 5/16"
Micro Dry Touch 3/8"
Sponge 5/16"

Measure Twice; Cut Once

To determine your proper grip size, place a ruler on the palm of your racquet
hand (right, if you’re right-handed), on the lower crease across the middle of the palm, and measure the distance from that crease to the end of your ring finger. Then, see if your racquet’s grip size matches. If you determine your grip size is incorrect, before running off to thepro shop, see if your current replacement grip is still in good working order, or if some simple changes could save you from buying a new stick.
Months or years of use will compress the padded layer of any grip. The grip isn’t good just because the outer layer isn’t worn off (using an overgrip doesn’t help; see below). After using a measuring tape to determine your racquet’s grip size, see if it matches the size noted on the shaft (or under the grip). You may only need to install a new grip. Even if it’s still off, there are ways to fix it without starting over.

Quick Fixes

Before discussing how to change a grip’s size, perhaps it would be good to explain why it may need to be done. If your racquet’s grip is the wrong size, either from wear or improper fitting, it forces the smaller muscles of the forearm to work harder to grip the handle. These smaller muscles won’t react kindly to the stress, and an injury can result.
If your grip is improperly sized, there are 3 simple ways to change it.
Overgrips are the cheapest and easiest way to add size. Thin overgrips will add
very little to grip size, but may be enough if you’re close. Thicker, cloth-style overgrips like Tourna-Grip can add almost one full handle size. A problem with thicker overgrips is their “rounding” effect: you will lose some feel for the bevels on the handle, which could hinder grip changes. Thicker overgrips can also add up to ½ oz. to racquet weight.
It may be quite easy to change your grip size by selecting a grip that is thicker or thinner than your current one. As Chart #1 shows, grip build-up effects can vary from ¼” to 9/16”, meaning you could change handle size by as much as 5/16” (two and one half sizes) by simply changing grips. This would have a minimal change in handle shape and racquet weight. However, make sure you like the resulting feel and shock absorption qualities.
Heat shrink sleeves let you control the amount of size increase and maintain handle shape. Most sleeves add one full size; some only ½ size. Their complete adherence to the handle maintains the bevels for sure grip changes although they, like thick overgips, can add up to ½ oz. to overall racquet weight. These sleeves should be installed by a professional racquet technician.

Myth Busted

Let’s take some time now to dispel the biggest “tennis myth” to come along in
years: “I don’t need to change my grip; I use an overgrip”.
Every time you swing your racquet, your hand or hands squeeze down on the grip,
compressing its padding. Initially, this is imperceptible. However, over a period of time, this compression reduces handle size and lessens shock absorption. Overgips do nothing to prevent this. Replacing an old grip with a new one of the same model can regain as much as one full grip size.
To ensure yourself of proper grip size, replace your grip at least twice a year, and preferably with every stringing, even if you use an overgrip.

Conclusion

Most tennis players never think about the grips on their racquets. Making sure your grip size is correct, making changes as needed, and exercising proper maintenance of the grip, can make stroke production easier, ease or eliminate arm problems, and give you the upper hand in your matches. So, “get a grip” on your racquet today!

New Videos!

2011-03-03T06:57:00.001-08:00

I'm a little behind the times, I must admit, with all this technology stuff (at least, where it doesn't pertain to tennis!), so it's taken me awhile to get a video camera and go to work. But I have, at last, and will routinely (I hope) be posting videos to my blog from now on.
My first post is to show off my new shop. Here's the link to my YouTube account for it: http://youtu.be/jBQmeWCWNwQ?a
Check back, 'cause I'm liking this video stuff!

Palm Coast Futures 2011

2011-02-12T11:03:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate to be asked to provide stringing services at the Palm Coast Futures men's professional tournament from Jan. 28-Feb. 6, 2011. Following are some of my observations from this event.

Jan. 27: I arrived about 3pm, and quickly became engulfed in frames form the qualifying participants. Upopn leaving the park at 9pm, I still had 10 frames sitting in my pile; a tough Friday awaits!

Most players were using full poly setups, with Luxilon ALU Power being the most popular. Since this was a clay-court event, tensions were, for the most part, low, with the majority of the guys using 50-58#, and the most popular frmaes were in the 95-100 sq. in. range (Pure Drives, Aero Pro Drives, Head Prestige Mid, and Wilson BLK sixone 95). There was one notable

qualifier: Wayne Odesnik.

After being suspended from the tour for 14 months, Odesnik is starting all over again: no points, no ranking, no nothing. What an insult it must be for him to do this, but he has no choice, as the rules are the same for everyone. He got through his first match easily, and looks to be the choice to win, as far as I can see. The #1 seed is only ranked #309 (Greg Oulette), and I don't see him stopping Wayne.

Jan. 28: I arrived at the park about 7am, and started to work. The pile never seemed to get any smaller, and that was mostly thanks to the Koreans.

There's a team of Korean players, about 8 or 10, I think, on this tour, and do they ever string some racquets! I never could tell who was who, and that's not an ethnic slur: one guy would drop off racquets for about half the team each day, and another one would pick them up and pay (they always seemed to pay with $100 bills, as well). They mostly used Babolat Aero Storm frames with a hybrid of VS gut mains and RPM Blast crosses. They always practiced and played doubles together, so they seemed to need all their racquets done at the same time. They were the last frames promised in the afternoon (3:00).

I stayed behind the machine from 7am-3pm, not even taking a bathroom break (Robin sent along a "Care package" for me, consisting of Extend Bars, Oreos and Alleve; it got me through many a tough patch!). However, by 3pm, I'd finished all the frames on time. Feeling proud, exhausted, and with supremely sore fingers, I took a lunch break and continued stringing until about 9pm, doing about 2 dozen frames for the day. I don't know how I'm going to survive right now.

Jan. 30: The qualifying is going full blast now, and main draw players are starting to filter in, making my day quite tough: I have to get everyone set up, but match players first, something not everyone understands. However, after some good-natured lecturing on my part, I get some common ground and start to work.

Odesnik is cruising, and there's another new threat: Razvan Sabau, former top-100 player from Romania, is in the field, and is also coaching 2 Italian players, Nicola Gehdin and Marco Speronello, both of whom make it into the main draw with him.

I go through another 20 or so frames today, and my hands are starting to feel better (or numb; I'm not so sure which right now).

Jan. 31: The last day of qualifying, and a scare for Odesnik. Denes Lukacs takes the second set, but Wayne bulldozes him in the third. He's still my favorite to win.

One player, whose name I will not reveal, comes to me at 9:49am, asking for a racquet to be done for a 10:00 match. I looked at him, then at my pile of frames, then back at him, all the while being completely silent.

"Well, as soon as you can in, in your order," he finally says. I pushed him as far up in the line as I could, getting his racquet to him by 11am. Hope he learned a lesson. Another 2 dozen frames today, and done at 9:30pm.

Feb. 1: Main draw going today in singles and doubles, but I'm in a groove by now. The staff at the Palm Coast Tennis Center are all great, and we've gotten a good system worked out. Players are able to put their frames in and get them on time, as long as we get their money before they leave. Solves lots of problems with tracking losing players down to get paid, I'll tell you!

20 or so more today, and left at 9pm.

Feb. 2: Odesnik is cruising, and plays Oulette tomorrow. Sabau also looks good, but may be on a collision course with his pupil Gehdin in the semis. Rising young American Jack Sock beat Speronello quite easily, showing a great serve and huge forehand. His backhand, however, looks suspect to me, especially if someone can get the ball up on him.

About 20 or so today, but got to leave by 8. Exhausted, I got Publix fried chicken with mac and cheese and chowed down.

Feb. 3: I spent my birthday knee-deep in racquets, and Odesnik made me look quite smart, destroying Oulette, 6-3, 6-0. It wasn't even that close, I was told. Tough draw for Greg, who's a local kid.

Some of the players are complaining a little about the unfairness of having to play someone of Wayne's caliber, but them's the breaks. He probably won't be playing Futures for very long, if that's any solice.

Half the field is gone now, so down to about 18 frames, and out by 8 again.

Feb. 4: Odesnik cruises again, and is into the semis without incident. His opponent, Australian Matt Reid, isn't as fortunate, winning a 3-hour plus slugfest against Sock, 7-6 in the third. Sock then goes on to play a 2-hour plus doubles match, which he wins. Even young legs must be feeling this day. Gehdin and Sabau make it through on the other side: teacher vs student tomorrow. Another dozen, but out by 5. Yippee!

Feb 5: Reid does his best, but is no match for Odesnik. The other match is what piqued my interest, though.

Neither Sabau nor Gehdin sent any racquets to be strung, which is the first day they haven't. This had me curious, to say the least. I got to watch a little of the match, which was all I needed.

Sabau double-faulted at least 9 times in the short spell I saw, and never got any depth on his shots, allowing Gehdin to totally dictate play. It was over pretty quickly, 1 and 4, and no one I spoke to thought Sabau gave his best effort. I hope they're wrong.

Only about 6 racquets today, and got a good night's sleep.

Feb 6: Finals day is the least busy, as I only did 3 frames: one for Odesnik, one for Gehdin (now he does one!) and one for doubles finalist Blake Strode (he and Oulette lost to Sock and Dimitar Kutovsky, 10-8 in a match tie-break)I got to watch some tennis today, and it was like a man playing a boy.

Gehdin is a strong, thickly-muscled kid, but he really works hard for his points. Odesnik, on the other hand, plays a much more relaxed style, really releasing the racquet head. After being broken in the first game, he asserted his dominance, working Gehdin mercilessly around the court, taking his best shots and sending them back with interest, and never allowing Nicola to get any traction.

Odesnik's immaculate footwork kept him in control, as he won in straight sets, 2 and 1. His $1,300 check is probalby meaningless to him (I assume he lost money for the 10 days), but the path this week puts him on is double important. I don't expect him to be playing Futures after spring, Satellites after summer, and to be in Challengers and main tour events by the end of the year, barring injury. His game is big-time good, and he looks to be focused and in great shape. The clay-cout season should be a god one for him; be looking for him if he comes to a town near you. He seems to be a good guy, as well, and I hope the problems of the past are behind him.

Final tally was about 150 frames strung between players and the staff and members of the club, and I hope I get asked back next year. Ken Obermeier and Alena Dvornikova have put together a great staff, and the public is staunchly behind the event. The crowds were large and enthusiastic, sponsor support was excellent, and the players seemed happy with their opportunities. If you're near Palm Coast, FL, next year, try to make it to this tournament.

Amelia Island Musings

2008-05-06T11:22:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate enough to score tickets for the semifinals of the Bausch & Lomb Championships at Amelia Island last month, and had a fine time. The facility is top-notch, and some of the tennis was excellent.
Unfortunately, Lindsay Davenport took ill and had to default to Maria Sharapova in one semi, but the second match between Alize Cornet and Dominika Cibulkova was pretty exciting, as were the doubles semis. I have a few observations following.

1. Cornet has a nice all-round game, and should vault up the rankings in the next year.
2. Cibulkova will always be height challenged, and her serve is a pretty weak arm swing.
3. All eight doubles players I saw – Meghann Shaugnessy, Nathalie Dechy, Victoria Azarenka, Elena Vesnina, Bethanie Mattek, Vladimira Uhlirova, Anabel Medina Garrigues and Virginia Ruano Pascual – in addition to both singles players, head net skills ranging from good to outstanding, but their knowledge (or at least execution) of the transition game was sadly lacking. Can we start teaching that again?
4. Bethanie Mattek appears to have lost 10-12# since I last saw her play, appears to be in very good shape, and is finally wearing “normal” tennis clothes. What a relief!!
5. Ruano Pascual looks like she works out for a living, rather than playing tennis! She must spend every non-tennis minute in the gym. She sets a shining example of work ethic, in my opinion.
6. Women’s tennis on clay is not shown in its best environment. A faster court would better showcase these ladies skills.

I ‘m saddened that this is Bausch & Lomb’s final year sponsoring the event: they’ve been a great partner with the WTA for many years. I hope the tournament finds a new sponsor and stays at Amelia for many more years. If you get a chance to go, do it. The club is great, the atmosphere superb, and the people are friendly. Besides, you may see me!!!

2007-- The Year in Review

2007-12-31T15:55:00.000-08:00

As the year draws to a close, here is my Best of 2007 List:

**Marryin’ of the Year: Kim Clijsters
**Marion of the Year: Bartoli
**Diamond of the Year (every year): Neil
**Seminar of the Year: Grand Slam Stringers Symposium
**Rain of the Year: Wimbledon
**Reign of the Year: Roger Federer
**Drama Queen of the Year: Serena Williams
**Goodbye of the Year: Bud Collins
**Good to Have You Back of the Year: Bjorn Borg at Wimbledon
**Appendix of the Year: Amelie Mauresmo
**Comeback of the Year: Serena Williams, Guillermo Canas
**Fix your Hat of the Year: Donald Young
**Racquet of the Year: Prince O3 SpeedPort Blue
**Engagement of the Year: Martina Hingis & Radek Stepanek (wait; forget about that one)
**Farewell of the Year: Tim Henman
**Welcome Back of the Year: Lindsay Davenport
**Reversal of the Year: James Blake signing a big Prince contract, then returning to Dunlop after being unable to find a Prince frame he wanted to use
**Tennis Website of the Year: what do you think?
**Scandal of the Year: betting in pro tennis
**Technology of the Year: Prince SpeedPorts
**Pants of the Year: Rafael Nadal
**You’re Wearing that? of the Year: Bethanie Mattek
**Isn’t that Dress a little Short? of the Year: most of the WTA Tour
**We’ll Never See That Again of the Year: Marion Bartoli in the finals of Wimbledon
**Jacket of the Year: Roger Federer
**Jackass of the Year: John McEnroe
**Bush League of the Year: Agnieszka Radwanska’s 14-and-under standing at the service line routine against Maria Sharapova at the U.S. Open
**Strangely Not Missed of the Year: Andre Agassi
**Newcomer of the Year: John Isner
**Commercial of the Year: John McEnroe’s American Express “Dispute” ad
**Good Riddance of the Year: Kim Clijster’s dopey retirement/marriage/pregnancy debacle
**Stupid Marketing Gimmick of the Year: Wilson’s constant barrage of different bags carried by Roger Federer during major tournaments
**Unappreciated of the Year: Fabrice Santoro (we’ll never see this entertaining game again)
**Cool New Guy of the Year: Novak Djokovic
**Wait ‘till Next Year of the Year: Novak Djokovic; Agnes Szavay
**I Wish You’d do Better ‘cause I Like Watching You Play of the Year: Patty Schnyder
**I Don’t Get It of the Year: why so many WTA Tour players seem to lack a basic knowledge of the serve

Stop the Screaming

2007-09-01T13:33:00.000-07:00

I just finished watching Maria “Shriekopova” lose at the U.S. Open, leaving me with one less “screamer” to have to deal with (the other 2, Venus and Serena Williams, are still alive as I write this). I almost feel bad that I enjoyed watching a player lose -- negativity is not my normal mindset -- but the decibel levels these 3 women bring to the court are annoying and unnecessary in my opinion.
Andy Roddick can hit a serve 150mph while making hardly a sound; Roger Federer can work his magic in blessed silence, and we hardly hear a peep from diminutive yet powerful Justine Henin. Why, then, can’t these 3 players, and numerous others of lesser stature, play without the constant screeching?
They can, of course, but choose not to when the going gets tough. In many of their matches, all 3 are fairly silent until the points become important. Then, the speakers get turned up, and I turn the volume off. A friend of mine, a tennis pro with decades of experience, tells me he will not watch a match played by Sharapova or the Williams sisters. I have a hunch he’s not alone. I have a plan which, if implemented, could solve this problem.
It is completely within the rules of tennis for a player to petition the umpire if he or she feels the opponent is interfering with their ability to concentrate on the match. Whether it involves movement or sound, a player is not permitted to do anything to cause distraction once the ball crosses the net to the opponent’s side. The speed of shot used in modern tennis guarantees the grunt is going on while the grunter’s opponent is trying to get lined up to return the shot; this could constitute a hindrance. The only person who could correctly say that the "grunt" was a hindrance would be the "grunter's" opponent.
The hindrances would be addressed in the following manner: the first protest would bring a warning. The second would force the point to be replayed. The third, and any subsuquent, protests would force the umpire to give the point to the complaining player.
If I were the opponents of Sharapova, Venus or Serena I would, at every opportunity, protest to the chair umpire whenever the vocal histrionics began. Now, I know what you’re thinking: the complaining player would be accused of gamesmanship, and would doubtlessly save their protests for the biggest points of the match. My answers are: I think these player’s screams constitute gamesmanship at its worst, and always seem to get louder as the points get bigger: break, set or match points always bring screams so loud as to endanger the hearing.
If players knew their “grunts” could cost them points or focus, they would almost universally drop in volume, or cease altogether. Then, we could all watch tennis in peace.

What's the Greatest Tennis Feat?

2007-07-07T10:50:00.001-07:00

I just finished watching Roger Federer beat Richard Gasquet to reach the finals of Wimbledon, his ninth consecutive Grand Slam final. Surey, this is one of the greatest feats in the history of tennis. But, just where does it rank in the grand scheme of things? To figure that out, we must examine some of the other great (Open Era) tennis accomplishments (in no particular order):
1. Calendar year Grand Slams by Rod laver (1969), Margaret Court (1970), and Steffi Graf (1988, including Olympic gold medal);
2. Winning 4 or more Slam titles in a row: Martina Navratilova (6 in a row from 1983-84), and Serena Williams (4 in a row from 2002-03);
3. Winning Slams in at least 4 consecutive years: Bjorn Borg (Wimbledon from 1976-80, and the French Open from 1978-81), Martina (Wimbledon from 1982-87), Pete Sampras (Wimbledon 1997-2000), Chris Evert (U.S. Open 1975-78), and Federer (Wimbledon 2003-06);
4. The French/Wimbledon double, won by Borg in 1978, 79 and 80; Martina in 1982 and 84, Serena in 2002, Steffi in 1988, 93 and 95, Laver in 1969, Court in 1970;
5. The unlikey surface/playing style Slam: Adriano Panatta (serve-and-volley player winning the French Open in 1976);
6. The multi-surface Slammer: Jimmy Connors (U.S. Open winner on 3 different surfaces in 5 years);
7. The winning streaks: Guillermo Vilas (50 match streak in 1977),Evert (125 match multi-year clay court streak), Martina (74 match streak in 1984);
8. Longevity records: Evert (at least one Slam per year from 1974-86), Ivan Lendl (8 consecutive U.S. Open finals from 1982-89), Sampras (year-end #1 for 6 straight years), Connors (8 years between Wimbledon titles);
9. Feats of versatility: John McEnroe (76 singles titles, and 77 doubles wins), Martina (singles, doubles and mixed at all 4 Slams, along with over 100 titles in singles and doubles);
10. the career Grand Slam: Evert, Navratilova, Graf, Laver, Court, Serena, Andre Agassi, and Billie Jean King.
I think that, obviously, the calendar year Slams should be #1, followed by the French/Wimbledon doubles and consecutive year wins at the same slam. It's a tossup to me whether Federer's Slam finals streak (never before done) or the career Slam should be 4 or 5. Winning 4 Slams in a row, while a remarkable achievement, doesn't compare to the feats listed above.
That's my take; what's yours?

Learn (the Right Things) from the Best

2007-07-06T06:39:00.001-07:00

I so often hear people comment about doing things “like the pros”, that it made me stop and reflect on just what we can, and should, learn from the world’s best players. It’s not what I hear these folks talking about, either. Forget about “big power”, “huge topspin”, “serve lots of aces”, and things of that nature. The best lessons we can learn from the pros are in five main areas.

First of all, top players are fanatical about conditioning, and rightly so: they earn their livings with their bodies. Weight training, cardiovascular exercise, stretching and proper nutrition are a necessary part of every pro’s day, even in the off-season. Paying particular attention to the shoulders, legs and core muscles, top players go to great trouble to ensure injury-free play. You rarely see a pro at Dunkin’ Donuts, either.

Next, high-level players know you can’t hit a heavy ball without a heavy racquet. The last time I saw it noted, the average racquet weight on the women’s tour was 11 ounces, and the men were 1 oz. higher. Heavier frames allow for more power with less effort, better shock absorption, and more stability on off-center hits than a similar, but lighter, racquet. The higher power level of a heavier frame means it can be more flexible, a real boon to the arm, as well. Remember, you can’t hit (or return) a 120mph serve with an 8 oz. racquet!

Third, good players recognize the importance equipment maintenance makes to their results. Even if a pro uses the same racquet for his or her entire career, they replace them constantly as the fibers break down, ensuring consistent feel, power and control. They also restring regularly, knowing that neglect of this vital area often means the difference between winning and losing. Even grips are regularly changed to ensure arm health.

Fourth, top players know they can’t survive without coaching. Roger Federer may go for spells without one, but you never see any other pros without a watchful eye over their shoulder. Even if not trying to make stroke changes, a good coach can help make sure they don’t slip into bad habits, and be a great aid in scouting and formulating tactics.

Finally, good players know that attitude means everything. They go into a match knowing they have to give their best on every shot, not dwell on the past or hope for the future. This is where they have it all over the rest of us: staying in the present.

Now, you may not play tennis for a living, but you can learn from what the world’s best players do. First, make a commitment to fitness. Hire a trainer if you must, but get off the couch between matches. You don’t need to exercise at a professional’s pace, but lifting weights twice a week, plus a couple of good aerobic workouts, would make a huge difference in your health and performance. Get up 30 minutes early during the week and work out. And replace some of that junk food with healthy meals.

Next, you may need to make some tough choices on equipment. If your current racquet is several years old, replace it with a new one of the same model, or the closest new version you can find. Your pro or trusted racquet specialist can help you navigate the sea of models out there to find the best fit for your game. Also, use the heaviest racquet you can comfortably swing. No matter how light and easy that 8 oz. job you may have is to swing, you’ll get more power, feel, comfort and stability from a heavier one. Replace it, or have it customized by a knowledgeable racquet technician, and have your pro see how it works for you.

Third, replace your strings and grip if you haven’t done it in a while. It’s not badge of honor to use the same string job for years on end, and the money you save in stringing may be outdone by doctor bills for tennis elbow or shoulder injuries. If you play 3 or more times per week you should, in my opinion, restring all of your racquets at least every 3 months. Change the grips, too, even if you use an overgrip. While you’re at it, have your racquet technician make sure your grip is the right size for you.

Fourth, make a call to your local pro for a “check-up” on your strokes. Without a coach’s watchful eye, bad habits can develop, robbing you of power and/or control, and exposing you to injury. After your overhaul, make regular appointments to check your progress.

Finally, work on your attitude. Don’t get caught up in the politics and personalities of the game. Relish the competition, and try to improve something every time you go out. Sure, it hurts to lose, but think of all the less pleasurable things you could be doing at the time. Feel better for having played today, rather than stressed out.

Sometimes, one person can help you with all these things. If you live or play in my area, please feel free to contact me and arrange to have your game and equipment examined. Whatever you decide to do, and whomever you decide to do it with, please do it soon.

2007-07-06T06:05:00.000-07:00

My name is Matt Steverson, USRSA Master Racquet Technician and USPTA Certified tennis professional at Sylvan Lake Park in Sanford, Florida, part of the Seminole County Parks and Recreation Department.
This blog is designed to be a venue for my opinions, rants and miscellaneous ramblings regarding the world of tennis
I’ve been a tennis player since 1973, and was one of the players to start the program at NAIA powerhouse Auburn-Montgomery.
I’ve taught tennis, either full- or part-time, since 1978.
I was one of the first stringers to be certified by the United States Racquet Stringers Association (USRSA) in 1986, and now hold the USRSA’s highest level of certification, Master Racquet Technician (MRT).
I self-published the newsletter Racquetech (some of which was featured on the Tennis Warehouse website), which helped usher in detailed equipment analysis, and examined ultra-lightweight racquet technology for the April 1999 issue of Tennis magazine. I’ve strung racquets at many top high school and college tournaments, and have handled tournament stringing for many top professional players, in addition to countless local casual and tournament players.
OK, enough about me. Please check my postings often. And, please feel free to leave your comments. After all, tennis is not a one game played by just one person.
And please visit my website mattstennis.com