Tennis Performance Research Articles

Gender-Specific Physiological Profiles and Performance Metrics in Young Elite Table Tennis Players

Table tennis requires a combination of anaerobic and aerobic energy systems, agility, short reaction times, and precise motor skills. The aim of this study is to investigate gender-specific physiological profiles and performance measures in young elite table tennis players. The objectives are to identify key physical and anthropometric attributes contributing to table tennis performance, compare these attributes between male and female athletes, and develop targeted training recommendations. The study involved sixteen players (8 males and 8 females) within the age range of 10 to 18 years who train regularly at Istanbul Pendik Sports Hall. Inclusion criteria required training at least three times per week and participating at championship levels. Anthropometric measurements were taken using a Seca 220R stadiometer and a Seca 710R weighing scale, with body fat percentage estimated via a Tanita scale. Performance tests included vertical jump height (Witty Microgate device), reaction times (custom device), and heart rates (Activio Sport System). Assessments were carried out between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Male athletes had higher mean values in height (159.00 ± 13.29 cm), weight (50.00 ± 12.06 kg), and vertical jump height, whereas female athletes had better reaction times (1.17 ± 0.14 seconds). No statistically significant differences were found in body fat percentage and mean heart rate. t-Tests revealed that gender differences in most performance metrics were not statistically significant, but correlation analysis showed statistically significant relationships between various physical characteristics and performance outcomes (p<0.05). As a result, physical fitness and reaction time are crucial for table tennis performance. Tailored training programs should focus on these attributes to enhance performance in young elite players. Future studies should follow these metrics longitudinally to understand their impact on competitive success.

Retirements of professional tennis players in ATP and WTA tour events.

Professional tennis competition at the highest levels requires high physical, technical, tactical, and mental demands. Player retirement is a scenario that often occurs at the highest echelons of the game. The objective of this study was to descriptively determine which factors influence retirement of matches in tennis. Matches from the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) and Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) tours played over 44 and 46years were included in the study, respectively. The results showed an increasing trend in the incidence of retirements in both ATP and WTA events, especially in recent years. Factors associated with the match characteristics, such as the type of surface, the type of tournament, and the round of the draw, were shown to influence retirement. Variables associated with player characteristics, such as the age difference between players, did not show to influence retirement, whereas the ranking difference did. When comparing ATP and WTA matches, similar results were observed in which surfaces and tournaments had the highest or lowest incidence of retirements. On the other hand, as per the rounds, the results are not conclusive. The findings highlight the growing trend of match retirements in professional tennis and emphasize the relevant influence of match characteristics such as surface type, tournament type, and round of the draw. These insights can guide coaches, players, and tournament organizers in developing strategies to mitigate retirements and inform future research on enhancing player longevity and performance in tennis.

The Evaluation of Sports Performance in Tennis Based on Flexible Piezoresistive Pressure Sensing Technology

The Evaluation of Sports Performance in Tennis Based on Flexible Piezoresistive Pressure Sensing Technology

Does mental fatigue affect performance in racket sports? A systematic review

Mental fatigue impairs performance across several sports domains. However, a systematic review on its effects on racket sports performance has been lacking due to the previous scarcity of studies. This review aims to provide a comprehensive review the effects of mental fatigue on racket players’ performance, with a discussion of the underlying mechanisms. A thorough search was conducted across five databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, SCOPUS, SPORTDiscus (via EBSCOhost), and the Psychological and Behavioral Science Collection (via EBSCOhost). The PICOS framework established the inclusion criteria: (1) healthy racket sports players; (2) induction of mental fatigue in both field and laboratory settings; (3) comparison of mental fatigue interventions with a control group (e.g., watching a movie or reading a magazine); (4) assessment of performance outcomes, including physical performance, skilled performance, and perceptual-cognitive performance; and (5) randomized controlled trials (RCTs), non-randomized controlled trials (non-RCTs), and non-randomized non-controlled trials. Mental fatigue manipulation, subjective evaluation, and (neuro)physiological markers were synthesized to support the successful induction of mental fatigue. Performance was categorized into tennis, table tennis, badminton, and padel based on the characteristics of specific racket sports domains. Secondary outcomes, such as the rate perception of effort (RPE) and motivation, were synthesized to explain the mechanisms based on the prominent theory of the Psychobiological model of endurance performance. Six studies revealed that mental fatigue impacts stroke performance in table tennis, affecting speed, accuracy, faults, and only second-serve accuracy in tennis. The response time of psychomotor performance increased in table tennis, padel, and badminton. Meanwhile, mental fatigue increased the RPE and remained unchanged in heart rate, blood glucose, and lactate, consistent with the Psychobiological model of endurance performance. Additionally, attention is suggested as a significant underlying psychobiological factor.

Teaching Competence and Strategies of Table Tennis Teachers and their Impact on Students’ Sports Performance: Basis for Enhanced Teaching Strategies Plan

This study assessed the teaching competence and strategies employed by table tennis teachers and their impact on students' sports performance. The data were gathered through questionnaires designed by the researcher. The data from teachers obtained through a questionnaire were analyzed statistically. The overall findings were used to propose an enhanced teaching competence plan for the sports performance of table tennis students. This quantitative study used correlational and analytical methods. The study used questionnaires to gather information from students and teachers, which will be analyzed statistically. Furthermore, the study included three main variables: the independent variables were teaching skills and strategies of instructors; while the dependent variable was the sports performance of students. These variables were examined for their relationships. This study ensured ethicality and proper research protocols through expert reviews and approval. It was conducted in Tianjin Chengjian University among a total of 100 students and 11 teachers. Based on the study findings, while communicative competence is the strongest teaching skill among table tennis teachers, overall neutral ratings emphasize the need for growth in creativity and innovation to better engage students and adapt to changing educational demands. Cooperative learning is preferred by both teachers and students over traditional lecture and theoretical learning. This shows how important it is to innovate and involve students in the learning process. Both teachers and students evaluated table tennis performance similarly, indicating a general neutral assessment and the need for improvement in all performance areas. Table tennis teachers need to enhance their use of theoretical instruction, incorporating practical application, to optimize sports performance and holistic development in students. Despite the provision of generic exercises, assessment indicates that table tennis students need specific stretches and exercises to enhance their mobility and flexibility.

SmartDampener: An Open Source Platform for Sport Analytics in Tennis

In this paper, we introduce SmartDampener, an open-source tennis analytics platform that redefines the traditional understanding of vibration dampeners. Traditional vibration dampeners favored by both amateur and professional tennis players are utilized primarily to diminish vibration transmission and enhance racket stability. However, our platform uniquely merges wireless sensing technologies into a device that resembles a conventional vibration dampener, thereby offering a range of tennis performance metrics including ball speed, impact location, and stroke type. The design of SmartDampener adheres to the familiar form of this accessory, ensuring that (i) it is readily accepted by users and robust under real-play conditions such as ball-hitting, (ii) it has minimal impact on player performance, (iii) it is capable of providing a wide range of analytical insights, and (iv) it is extensible to other sports. Existing computer vision systems for tennis sensing such as Hawk-eye and PlaySight, rely on hardware that costs millions of US dollars to deploy with complex setup procedures and is susceptible to lighting environment. Wearable devices and other tennis sensing accessories, such as Zepp Tennis sensor and TennisEye, using intrusive mounting locations, hinder user experience and impede player performance. In contrast, SmartDampener, a low-cost and compact tennis sensing device, notable for its socially accepted, lightweight and scalable design, seamlessly melds into the form of a vibration dampener. SmartDampener exploits opportunities in SoC and form factor design of conventional dampeners to integrate the sensing units and micro-controllers on a two-layer flexible PCB, that is bent and enclosed inside a dampener case made of 3D printing TPU material, while maintaining the vibration dampening feature and further being enhanced by its extended battery life and the inclusion of wireless communication features. The overall cost is $9.42, with a dimension of 21.4 mm × 27.5 mm × 9.7 mm (W × L × H) and a weight of 6.1 g and 5.8 hours of battery life. In proof of SmartDampener's performance in tennis analytics, we present various tennis analytic applications that exploit the capability of SmartDampener in capturing the correlations across string vibration, and racket motion, including the estimation of ball speed with a median error of 3.59 mph, estimation of ball impact location with accuracy of 3.03 cm, and classification of six tennis strokes with accuracy of 96.75%. Finally, extensive usability studies with 15 tennis players indicate high levels of social acceptance of form factor design for the SmartDampener dampener in comparison with alternative form factors, as well as its capability of sensing and analyzing tennis stroke in an accurate and robust manner. We believe this platform will enable exciting applications in other sports like badminton, fitness tracking, and injury prevention.

Research on Professional Tennis Performance Metrics Based on Random Forest and Analytic Hierarchy Process Algorithms

Understanding the dynamics of player performance in professional tennis, particularly how quantifiable metrics such as momentum influence match outcomes, is crucial for advancing sports analytics and enhancing coaching strategies. This study investigates performance metrics and momentum in professional tennis. The research introduced an innovative method of quantifying "momentum" in the sport, analyzing its impact alongside other performance indicators. We applied the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to determine the relative importance of various performance factors, revealing technical skills as the predominant influence. The study employed Random Forest algorithms to model match outcomes, contrasting predictions with and without momentum as a variable. Our results significantly demonstrated that momentum plays a critical role in the dynamics of match outcomes, challenging the notion that player success sequences are merely random. The robustness of the Random Forest model was further validated through sensitivity analysis, highlighting its effectiveness as a predictive tool in sports analytics. This research not only enhances the understanding of player performance in tennis but also supports the incorporation of momentum in sports performance evaluations.

Performing in high-pressure situations: the case of tennis players up a break and serving for the set

ABSTRACT This study explores the impact of perceived pressure on performance in professional tennis. Contrary to conventional wisdom linking pressure with poorer performance, we analyse over 136,000 tennis game instances (from July 2021–September 2022) to find that both male and female players improve their service hold probabilities under heightened match pressure. While innate player attributes influence service hold likelihoods, the gender-specific variability in performance response to pressure is evident, with female players revealing a greater variance in likelihood.

Unleashing the Power of Momentum: Analyzing Tennis Match Flow through Data Analysis

This paper aims to analyze the impact of momentum in the Wimbledon Men's Singles Final, uncovering its influence on the game's trajectory and providing strategic advice. To analyze player performance and game pace in tennis, we identified key variables within the dimensions of Consumption, Serving, Accuracy, and Difference. Initially, we developed a momentum prediction model in tennis using logistic regression, with an accuracy of over 73%. In line with the actual match, our visualizations provide valuable insights into the flow of play and momentum shifts in tennis matches. Secondly, we conducted a randomness analysis using the Run test on two metrics: CW (swings in play) and DPW (runs of success by one player), indicated that neither CW nor DPW occurs randomly. Furthermore, we employed Vector Auto-regressive Models (VAR) and found that momentum significantly affects the states of players and their winning streaks. Thirdly, we created the Momentum Swing Prediction Model using the Random Forest approach, introducing a dependent variable, TP, to capture the swings in momentum during a match. By analyzing the variable, we have identified four key factors: win/loss of the serve, rally length, serve speed, and distance. Moreover, we offer three practical recommendations for players entering a new match. Finally, we tested the Momentum Swings Prediction model on matches that were not included in the 2023 Wimbledon Men's model, and proposed incorporating player strength and injury information into future models to enhance the model's performance in different scenarios. Through testing on the 2022 Wimbledon Women's matches, we conclude that our model exhibits generalization across various types of matches. In conclusion, these findings highlight the significance of momentum and how it can impact the flow of play. By understanding these dynamics, coaches can better prepare players to respond to events that impact the match's trajectory.

An Integrated Assessment Model of Momentum and Performance in Tennis Based on PCA And TOPSIS

An Integrated Assessment Model of Momentum and Performance in Tennis Based on PCA And TOPSIS

Applications of Machine Learning to Optimize Tennis Performance: A Systematic Review

(1) Background: Tennis has changed toward power-driven gameplay, demanding a nuanced understanding of performance factors. This review explores the role of machine learning in enhancing tennis performance. (2) Methods: A systematic search identified articles utilizing machine learning in tennis performance analysis. (3) Results: Machine learning applications show promise in psychological state monitoring, talent identification, match outcome prediction, spatial and tactical analysis, and injury prevention. Coaches can leverage wearable technologies for personalized psychological state monitoring, data-driven talent identification, and tactical insights for informed decision-making. (4) Conclusions: Machine learning offers coaches insights to refine coaching methodologies and optimize player performance in tennis. By integrating these insights, coaches can adapt to the demands of the sport by improving the players’ outcomes. As technology progresses, continued exploration of machine learning’s potential in tennis is warranted for further advancements in performance optimization.

The Effect of Groundstroke Forehand Exercise on Speed and Agility in 14 to 16-year-old Tennis Athletes

This research addresses gaps by developing a holistic training model that integrates essential elements for optimal tennis performance. The study explores how physical conditioning can enhance agility, speed, and overall performance of junior athletes aged 14 to 16, focusing on forehand drive. The aim is to provide insights for coaches and players by integrating physical and technical training to improve performance. The scope includes evaluating the effectiveness of a forehand drive training program supplemented with speed and agility exercises for junior tennis players. An experimental one-group pre-test-post-test design was employed. Eleven tennis athletes from the Nusalima Tennis Academy participated. Speed was measured using a 20-meter sprint, and agility was calculated using the 505 Agility Test. The training program spanned 12 sessions over four weeks. Statistical analysis included mean, standard deviation, normality tests, and t-tests. Pre-test and post-test results showed significant improvements in speed and agility. The t-test values indicated statistical significance, confirming the effectiveness of the forehand drive training model. Players demonstrated enhanced neuromuscular adaptation, muscle strength, coordination, and reaction time. The study concludes that the forehand drive training model significantly improves speed and agility in junior tennis players. The findings support the theory that focused and structured training enhances physical abilities and performance. Additionally, the research highlights the long-term health benefits of intensive tennis training, such as improved cardiovascular health and overall fitness. The training model can be widely applied to develop well-rounded athletes in tennis programs.

The Influence of Environmental Factors on Performance in Table Tennis: A Literature Study

This study aims to explore the influence of environmental factors such as lighting, temperature, humidity, noise, and table surface type on performance in table tennis. A literature review method was used to analyze findings from various relevant studies in this field. The results of the review indicate that environmental factors play a significant role in affecting concentration, physical and mental performance, as well as players' game control in table tennis. Low lighting, extreme temperatures, high humidity, environmental noise, and table surface type are significant variables in influencing player performance. The implications of this research underscore the importance of understanding and adapting to environmental factors for table tennis players to enhance their performance and achievements in this sport. Further research is recommended to delve deeper into the interaction between environmental factors and performance in table tennis.

Potential Benefits of Postactivation Potentiation Protocols on Tennis Performance: A Systematic Review

ABSTRACT The study aimed to provide an overview of the benefits of postactivation potentiation (PAP) protocols on tennis performance. All procedures were in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. After an online search, 8 studies with 133 tennis players were eligible for inclusion. Results showed that a variety of methods were used to elicit PAP in tennis players, with maximal voluntary isometric contraction showing promising results in improving serve velocity (SV) by 4.6 km·h−1 (3.4 ± 4.6%; ES = 0.711) immediately after the preconditioning activity (PCA). The most favorable effects of PAP on sprinting time and maximal power were observed in resistance training exercises using squats as PCA, with loads near 60% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM), whereas the heavy load leg press warm-up demonstrated positive effects on agility and power. By contrast, negative effects on SV were observed with heavy 600-g ball throws. Despite limitations in match application because of the post-activation performance enhancement effect duration, these protocols remain beneficial for training purposes. Calculating volume load relative to 1RM can provide helpful insights for optimal PAP. However, individualizing PAP protocols based on athletes' characteristics and training status seems crucial and should be investigated in future studies.

Analysis of serve and first shot sequences in U-12 and U-14 tennis players

Stroke sequence analysis in junior tennis helps identify patterns of play and could help improve the performance of players in formative stages. The purpose of the study was to analyze the sequences of serve and third shot (serve +1) in elite youth tennis, in the men's U-12 and U-14 categories. The direction of the serve, the position of the players when executing the third stroke and the direction in which they send the ball were evaluated. It was found that U-12 players have less effectiveness in second serves. The location of the shots varies depending on the category and the situation of the game. The importance of training service sequences and first shots to improve performance in junior tennis is highlighted.

7 important upper body muscles for high performance tennis players

This article focuses specifically on the training of key, yet sometimes overlooked by amateur players, muscles and muscle groups that play a major role in both injury prevention and performance enhancement. We can learn from many high performance and professional tennis players and coaches who have adopted these important upper body exercises. The purpose of the selected muscles is to assist in stabilizing a specific joint and additionally allow these joints their proper range of motion. This information is important for players as well as coaches in helping to their players obtain optimal tennis performance. Although many muscles and movement patterns could be addressed, the specific focus of this article is on those often characterized as secondary muscles of the upper body.

The Effect of Agility Balance and Coordination Warm-Up on Children’s Tennis Performance

Background and Aims: Tennis is also a sophisticated action, intense confrontation, technical and tactical use of complex and varied network antagonistic sport, on physical and mental intelligence aspects of the higher requirements, emphasizing skills and physical dominance. The purpose of this study is to select 40 male children aged 6-10 years old from a tennis club in Xi'an for a group experiment based on the selection conditions of age, height, weight, training time no more than 6 months, and training twice a week, and to find out the theoretical basis of agility, balance, and coordination intervention training on the improvement of children's tennis hitting ability. Materials and Methods: This study adopts the literature method, expert interview method, experiment method, and mathematical statistics method. Five expert professors were interviewed, and the validity of expert interviews and experimental results was measured by IOC, t-test, and other data. Through 8 weeks of agility, balance, and coordination training in the experimental group and the control group, and 90 minutes of intervention training twice a week, it is concluded that the experimental group and the control group have significant differences, and the experimental group has significantly improved its ability in batting and other aspects. Results: The results showed that: (1) 8-week agility, balance, and coordination intervention training applied in the warm-up part significantly improved the agility, balance, and coordination ability of children's tennis in the experimental group, and the intervention program was feasible to improve the agility, balance and coordination ability of children's tennis students in the interest class. (2) After 8 weeks of agility, balance, and coordination training, the number of goals scored by the students in the experimental group in the scoring area of 1, 2, and 3 points of forehand stroke showed a significant difference compared with before training, while the difference was only significant in the scoring area of 1 point of the backhand stroke. It shows that 8 weeks of agility, balance, and coordination training can improve the stability and accuracy of forehand strokes more obviously. Conclusion: (1) Stability and accuracy are based on good agility, balance, and coordination. Agility, balance, and coordination can improve the accuracy and stability of forehand and backhand in tennis training for children. (2) 6-10 years old is the best period for children to conduct agility, balance, and coordination intervention training, so strengthening agility, balance, and coordination training in tennis warm-up training can not only improve the stability and accuracy of children's tennis shots but also increase children's interest and concentration.

Enhancing Tennis Performance through Visual Training: The Efficacy of Dynamic Vision Exercises

Enhancing Tennis Performance through Visual Training: The Efficacy of Dynamic Vision Exercises

Decoding the decade: Analyzing the evolution of technical and tactical performance in elite padel tennis (2011–2021)

Despite the recent popularity of padel tennis and extensive scientific research on technical and tactical performance, anthropometric, biomechanical, and physiological characteristics, there is still a lack of long-term retrospective investigation. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to provide the changes in these indicators over a decade spanning from 2011 to 2021. The sample included 45 (i.e. 100 sets; 957 games; 5743 points; and 54,918 shots) professional men's matches (Padel Pro Tour and World Padel Tour finals and semifinals) from three different sports seasons (2011, 2016, and 2021). KPIs related to time motion and technical and tactical analysis (i.e. unforced errors and winner shots) were examined. A series of linear mixed models was performed to investigate difference among competition years (2011, 2016, and 2021). Comparing the evolution of the game across the observed decade, it emerged a more progressive intense game (more explosive and rapid playing actions), decreasing number of shots per point (8.8 vs 9.5), and an increasing number of shots per minute (44.2 vs 40.0). Further, an increase in the importance of efficiency in overhead shots (unforced errors from bandeja/vibora +116% from 2011 to 2016) and responding to serve shots (unforced errors from serve return +17% from 2011 to 2021) emerged. Therefore, the present findings are able to highlight the evolution playing of professional padel (i.e. fewer shots per point, shorter effective playing time, decreased average point durations, higher number of shots per minute), thus providing references to potential valuable training plans.

Effects of a 6-Week Agility Training Program on Emotional Intelligence and Attention Levels in Adolescent Tennis Players

Tennis can be a mentally challenging sport, and emotional intelligence (EI) contributes significantly to an athlete’s psychological well-being. Thus, this study investigated the effects of 6 weeks of a combined Change of Direction (CoD) and reactive agility (RA) intervention program on emotional intelligence (EI) in pubertal tennis players. A total of 28 youth tennis players, aged 11 to 14 years, were randomly assigned to an experimental group (EXP-G, n = 15, 13 boys [age = 13.34 ± 0.98 years, maturity offset (MO) = −0.19 ± 0.96], and 2 girls [age = 12.77 ± 0.23 years, MO = 0.78 ± 0.04]) or a control group (CON-G, n = 13, 8 boys [age = 13.37 ± 0.75 years, MO = 0.00 ± 0.71], and 5 girls [age = 13.50 ± 0.92 years, MO = 1.41 ± 1.07]). The EXP-G performed combined CoD and RA training across the 6-week intervention period. The CON-G continued with the normal five 20 min regular tennis-specific training sessions per week, including technical and tactical drills and a small-sided games format. The overall training volume was similar between groups. Pre- and post-training, Profile of Emotional Competence (PEC, [EC TOTAL: global score of emotional competence level; EC INTRA: score of intra-personal emotional competence; EC INTER: score of inter-personal emotional competence]) and d2 attention tests were assessed. The present study employed an Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) with pre-test covariance to assess between-group differences (EXP-G vs. CON-G) at the post-test phase, utilizing baseline values as covariates. Noteworthy outcomes were observed, indicating statistically significant and substantial between-group disparities at post-test for various measures. Specifically, these differences were evident in the attention domain (effect size, d = 1.08 [Large], p = 0.001), the EC TOTAL test (effect size, d = 0.70 [Medium], p = 0.017), the EC INTA (effect size, d = 1.35 [Large], p = 0.001), and the EC INTER (effect size, d = 0.83 [Large], p = 0.009) tests. Due to the importance of agility training for overall competitive performance in tennis, our results suggest that young players should perform such training programs as part of conditioning training if the goal is to improve emotional intelligence and mental well-being.