Murray's Unconventional Move
Andy Murray surprised everyone, including his opponent James Duckworth, with a rare underarm serve during their Wimbledon 2022 match. Now, as the Australian Open 2024 approaches, fans are wondering if Murray will unleash this shot again.
A Tactical Choice
Murray explained that he used the underarm serve as a "smart play" to take advantage of Duckworth's change in return position. When Duckworth stepped two meters back, Murray seized the opportunity to catch him off guard with the unconventional serve.
Legitimacy of the Underarm Serve
According to Murray, using the underarm serve is a legitimate tactic. He clarified that he would not employ it if his opponent was standing on the baseline, as he believes that would be a "stupid idea." Murray emphasized that he used the shot not to disrespect Duckworth but to exploit his strategic positioning.
Understanding the Rules
Underarm serves are entirely within the rules of tennis. As long as the ball is struck with the racquet before touching the ground, it is considered a legal shot. Interestingly, this technique was first used against Murray's former coach, Ivan Lendl, at the French Open in 1989 by Michael Chang.
Joining the Underarm Serve Club
Murray is not the only player to utilize the underarm serve. Nick Kyrgios and Daniil Medvedev are also known for incorporating this unconventional shot into their game.
In conclusion, Murray's underarm serve has sparked a discussion about the strategic use of this shot in professional tennis. As the Australian Open approaches, fans will be eagerly watching to see if Murray continues to surprise his opponents with this unexpected tactic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are four Grand Slam tennis tournaments?
The four Grand Slam tournaments, also known as the Majors, are the most prestigious events in professional tennis. The Australian Open is held in January. The French Open takes place in May and in June. Wimbledon takes place in July and in June. And the US Open occurs in August. These tournaments offer a high level of competitiveness, a long history, as well as significant rankings points and prize funds. Winning a Grand Slam is considered one of the greatest achievements in tennis.
How have women’s contributions to tennis shaped the sport?
Tennis has been significantly shaped by the women’s performances, as well as their off-court activism for equality and recognition. Billie Jean King’s tireless efforts to promote equal prize-money and professional opportunities for female tennis players led to the Women’s Tennis Association’s (WTA’s) formation in 1973. Steffi Graef, Venus & Serena Williams & Martina Navratilova have all contributed to the rise of tennis through their talent ad competitive spirit. The sport is popular with both men and women.
What is the uniqueness of tennis’ scoring system?
Tennis has a unique scoring system that contributes to its character. Sets and games are used to divide matches. Players must win at least six games by two margins to be able to claim a match. The scoring within games proceeds from love (zero) to fifteen, thirty, and forty, before winning the game. If the players are tied at forty, they have to win by two points. This system is unpredictable and creates tension.
What are the essential components of tennis protocol?
Tennis etiquette reflects sportsmanship and respect. Players should be expected to give honest decisions on line rulings. They are also expected to avoid distractions while serving, remain silent in rallies, and offer a friendly handshake at the end of the match. Audiences participate in the etiquette of tennis by being quiet during match play, and applauding each other’s good shots. The integrity of tennis and its gentlemanly tradition are preserved by following these unwritten guidelines.
What has changed in tennis equipment over the years?
Tennis equipment has changed dramatically since the early days of tennis. Original rackets are made from solid wood, with string gut that is made from animal intestinal fibers. As technology evolved, rackets became lighter and stronger by using new materials, such as carbon fiber, graphite, and titanium. The balls themselves have changed as well, from being hand-sewn into manufactured rubber pressurized balls which provide consistent bounce. This evolution allows for a much more dynamic and athletic style of play.
Statistics
- The four Grand Slam tournaments collectively attract over 3.5 million spectators in person, highlighting tennis’s enduring appeal.
- Lawn tennis, which evolved into the game we know today, adapted its point system from the jeu de paume, with theories suggesting its increments represent the face of a clock.
- The global tennis equipment market reached an estimated value of over 1 billion dollars, reflecting the sport’s widespread popularity.
- As of 2023, Wimbledon remains the oldest tennis tournament in the world and is considered by many to be the most prestigious.
- Major Walter Clopton Wingfield is often credited with pioneering the rules of modern tennis in 1873, and his version of the game was patented under the name “Sphairistikè.”
External Links
wimbledon.com
bbc.com
smithsonianmag.com
itftennis.com
rolandgarros.com
How To
Tennis Shoes: Choose the best shoes for your court surface
Tennis shoes can be selected based on what surface you prefer to play on. Players of hard courts should choose durable soles that can withstand surfaces with abrasive materials. Clay court shoes are often designed with herringbone treads for maximum grip and control. Grass courts shoes are often equipped with nubs and pimples on the soles in order to increase traction while not damaging the court. To reduce injuries and maximize movement on the tennis court, it is important to ensure that you are wearing shoes with proper support and fit.
