April 30, 2021

Here’s your roundup of the five most interesting things I’m enjoying or thinking about this week.

1.) Babolat RPM Blast [Review]

In my latest video, I dive deep and review one of our game’s most popular polyester tennis strings, Babolat RPM Blast. In it, I cover everything you need to know about the string, from its construction to its specs and stringing, along with my thoughts and opinions on its performance.

2.) Nadal’s Unusual Mistake

Early in his semi-final match in Barcelona against Pablo Carreño Busta, Nadal hit a second serve and promptly turned away from the court after he thought his serve was long. It turns out his serve was good, to which Nadal promptly apologized. It was an unusual mistake that he quickly shrugged off as he’d go on to win 6-3, 6-2 and then claim the title taking out Stefanos Tsitsipas in a memorable three-setter the very next day.

One of the few errors Nadal has made on this court ?

?: @TennisTV | @bcnopenbs pic.twitter.com/MmScrDlfKa

— ATP Tour (@atptour) April 24, 2021

3.) 2 Titles 13 Years Apart

In 2008, Sorana Cirstea won her first WTA title at the young age of 18, and since then, she’s kept at it, maintaining a top 100 ranking ever since. Now, after 13 years, Cirstea raised her second trophy defeating world #17, Elise Mertens. Talk about patience and persistence. Great to see her find her groove and go the distance once again!

4.) Paire Barred from Olympics

Benoît Paire’s inappropriate behavior, poor attitude, and unsportsmanlike conduct, which has reached new heights in 2021, has officially caught up to him. This week, the French Tennis Federation announced that he would not be eligible to represent his country at the Tokyo Olympics.

Watch an Example Meltdown

5.) Muguruza’s Injury

Suffering from a left thigh injury, world #13 Garbiñe Muguruza made the tough decision to withdraw from her home tournament, the Madrid Open, yesterday. She’s had a terrific start to the season, reaching four finals and securing her eighth career title. Hopefully, she heals up quickly and can return to full health sooner than later.

? pic.twitter.com/BlW5etqHcv

— Garbiñe Muguruza (@GarbiMuguruza) April 29, 2021

If you have a moment, I’d love to hear your feedback. Which topic is your favorite? What would you like to see more or less of each week?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and have a great weekend.