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May 17, 2024
Five Point Friday
Here’s your roundup of the five most interesting things I’m enjoying or thinking about this week in tennis.
1.) Increase Your Grip Size [Video]
In my latest how-to article and video, I review three straightforward methods for increasing your racquet’s grip size, discuss potential drawbacks, and provide step-by-step instructions for installing a heat shrink sleeve to achieve optimal comfort and performance.
2.) Queen of the 21 & Under Club
Coco Gauff has passed Caroline Wozniacki as the player with the most wins at the WTA 1000 level under 21, with 61. Gauff achieved the feat during her quarterfinal match in Rome on Tuesday, defeating Qinwen Zheng 7-6 (4), 6-1.
3.) Djokovic’s Concussion Test
After a routine second-round win over Corentin Moutet at the Rome Masters, Novak suffered a one-sided encounter with a metal water bottle that accidentally fell from a fan’s bag. Djokovic received medical attention for the incident but was cleared for his next match and seemed good to go, arriving humorously with a bicycle helmet to practice the following day. However, his subsequent 2-6, 3-6 loss to No. 32 Alejandro Tabilo left him feeling all out of sorts and led him to undergo concussion tests, the results of which he’s currently awaiting.
Here is the incident in full. An object thrown onto Djokovic whilst he was kindly signing fan’s signature.
The perpetrator must be found and arrested immediately @atptour @InteBNLdItalia
This is absolutely shocking. pic.twitter.com/elZULm34Ja
— Pavvy G (@pavyg) May 10, 2024
The tournament released a video showing that Novak Djokovic was hit on the head by accident.
The bottle slipped from a fan’s backpack.
Just a very unfortunate, unlucky situation. ❤️🩹
(via @InteBNLdItalia)
pic.twitter.com/5LIzzWZpMS— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) May 10, 2024
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4.) Federer’s Twelve Final Days
‘Twelve Final Days,’ a collection of behind-the-scenes footage, capturing the essence of Roger Federer during the emotional buildup to his 2022 Laver Cup farewell. In the documentary, the 20-time Grand Slam champ reveals a vulnerable and candid side, leaving fans eagerly awaiting its release next month.
5.) 2 Retirement Announcements
Former world No. 8 Diego Schwartzman announced Sunday that 2024 will be his final season on tour before returning home for a “beautiful” farewell in Buenos Aires in 2025. Similarly, former No. 3 Dominic Thiem, who has battled a wrist injury, confirmed retirement rumors last Friday. Each player released heartfelt announcements to fans who will undoubtedly miss their presence on tour.
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While you’re here, check out the TennisCompanion Vibration Dampener to enhance your racquet’s feel and sound. As a bonus, your purchase helps keep my website (and emails) running. Cheers!
While you’re here, check out the TennisCompanion Vibration Dampener to enhance your racquet’s feel and sound. As a bonus, your purchase helps keep my website (and emails) running. Cheers!
May 10, 2024
Here’s last week’s roundup, just in case you missed it.
1.) Navigating Tennis Rating Systems
In my latest article, I explore the intricate world of tennis rating systems, including UTR, NTRP, and WTN. I explain what they are, how they work, their role in competitive tennis, and the steps you can take to establish your own rating.
2.) Who Is Stan Smith?
Executive-produced by LeBron James and Maverick Carter, this new documentary unpacks the man behind these celebrated shoes. Stan Smith has deeply impacted sport and society, and this film explores his influence. Paying homage to “the man who carried tennis on his shoulders for decades,” the film also raises funds for the USTA Foundation’s flagship National Junior Tennis & Learning network.
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3.) Swaitek vs. Sabalenka Delivers
The Madrid Open final was a grueling three-hour and eleven-minute marathon for the women’s top two. Iga took the crown, saving three match points and winning 7-5, 4-6, 7-6 (7), bringing their head-to-head 7-3 in her favor. If you didn’t catch it live, you’ll definitely want to watch the highlights.
4.) Once In a Lifetime Souvenir
Pedro Cachin fulfilled a dream last week, playing against Rafael Nadal for the first time in his career. Although Cachin lost 1-6, 7-6 (5), 3-6, he was thrilled to share the court with the legend and even asked Rafa for a memento. Rafa obliged with one of his shirts from the match.
5.) Camila Giorgi’s Sudden Retirement
Without any public announcement, Giorgi has formally exited professional tennis. The 32-year-old suddenly appeared on the ITIA’s retired player list without a word. Some speculate she may be pursuing opportunities in fashion.
See The Retired Player List Yourself
🇮🇹 Camila Giorgi has made her silent exit from professional tennis.
The Italian’s name appeared on the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s retired players list, formally indicating her retirement status.
Giorgi earned 4 titles in her career 🏆 https://t.co/pCrRzsmNtn
— TENNIS (@Tennis) May 8, 2024
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5 Point Friday
Read our weekly recap of the 5 most interesting things we dig up in tennis.