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May 10, 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.) 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
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 3, 2024
Here’s last week’s roundup, just in case you missed it.
1.) Epic Tennis Rallies
From the perfectly manicured grass of Wimbledon to the intense summer heat of the Australian Open, I unravel the stories of the longest rallies in history, shedding light on these unforgettable moments.
2.) Tennis vs. Pickleball Turf War
In an entertaining bit, Daily Show correspondent Michael Kosta recruits Patrick McEnroe to discuss the turf war and commentate a showdown between Kosta and Ronny Chieng and The Pickleball Doctor and his twin brother.
3.) Rybakina’s Stunning Comeback
Playing Yulia Putintseva in the Madrid Open quarterfinals, Elena Rybakina pulled off a stunning comeback in the third set down 2-5, 15-40. Saving two match points, Elena rallied to win the match 4-6, 7-6(4), 7-5 in a 2 hour and 48-minute thriller. If you watch the highlights, the comeback begins at 3:35 in the video.
4.) Rafa’s Olympic Dubs Partner
Assuming both players can stay healthy enough for this year’s Summer Olympics, Rafa shared that he’d happily partner up with Carlos Alcaraz in doubles. The topic first surfaced last year when Carlos suggested it would be a “dream” for the two to compete for a medal, but up until a Madrid Open interview, it hadn’t been confirmed by either player.
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5.) Tennis Australia Warns ATP
In a letter to the ATP, Tennis Australia strongly opposed any attempt to schedule a new Masters tournament in Saudi Arabia during the first week of the season starting in 2027, citing a potential breach of contract. They also argued that the existing schedule is in the best interest of the players and fans, with a streamlined narrative that drives viewership.
EXCLUSIVE: In a thinly veiled warning, Australian Open chiefs informed the ATP Tour that they would regard an attempt to host a January tournament in Saudi Arabia as a request for a potential “breach” of an existing contract.
✍️ @mattfuttermanhttps://t.co/mWLM85SVhB
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) April 30, 2024
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5 Point Friday
Read our weekly recap of the 5 most interesting things we dig up in tennis.