Tennis

Why Do Tennis Players String Cross Strings Tighter Than Main Strings?Professional tennis players are meticulous about their equipment, often using multiple racquets with varying string tensions to optimize their performance. One common practice is to string the cross strings tighter than the main strings. This technique offers several advantages:Hybrid String Beds:When using hybrid string beds, which combine different strings in the mains and crosses, unequal tensions can enhance the desired characteristics. For example, a player may use a stiffer polyester string in the mains for control and a softer natural gut string in the crosses for elasticity. By stringing the gut tighter, the player can firm up the string bed while maintaining control.Uniform String Bed:Cross strings are shorter and more numerous than main strings, resulting in less space between them. Stringing them at the same tension as the mains can make them feel firmer. Lowering the cross string tension can create a more uniform string bed, allowing the main strings to move more freely and potentially generating more spin.Predictable String Bed:Some players prefer to string their cross strings tighter than their mains to create a more predictable string bed. The tighter cross strings keep the main strings in place, resulting in flatter shots that penetrate the court better. This technique is particularly beneficial on clay courts, where the ball bounces higher and slower.Edge for Elite Players:While mixing tensions on main and cross strings may not significantly impact recreational players, it can provide an advantage for elite players who seek every possible edge. By customizing the string bed to their specific playing style and court conditions, they can optimize their performance and gain a competitive advantage.

Joao Fonseca, the 17-year-old Brazilian tennis prodigy, has made a bold decision to forgo his NCAA tennis commitment to the University of Virginia in favor of pursuing his professional tennis ambitions full-time. This decision comes after Fonseca's impressive performance at the recent Rio Open, where he reached the quarterfinals, becoming the first player born in 2006 to win an ATP match.Fonseca's journey to this point has been marked by consistent success. As the 2023 US Open boys' champion, he has demonstrated his exceptional talent and potential. His victory over then 36th-ranked Arthur Fils in the Rio Open opener was a testament to his ability to compete at the highest level.In a statement on his Instagram, Fonseca expressed the difficulty of his decision, acknowledging his dream of experiencing college life and playing tennis with a team. However, he ultimately felt that the allure of professional tennis was too strong to ignore."It was an incredibly tough decision for me and my family as I have been dreaming about living a college life in Charlottesville, playing the sport that I love with a wonderful team and coach, but, in the last months, professional tennis called me in a way that I simply couldn't say 'no'," Fonseca shared.Fonseca's decision highlights the growing trend of young tennis players opting for professional careers over traditional college paths. While college tennis offers valuable opportunities for development and education, the allure of immediate professional success and financial rewards can be difficult to resist.Despite his decision to forgo college, Fonseca remains grateful for the support he received from the University of Virginia and coach Andres Pedroso. He believes that college tennis can still be a viable path for young players aspiring to professional careers.Fonseca's next challenge will be the Chile Open in Santiago, where he will look to build on his impressive start to the season. With his talent and determination, he has the potential to become a regular on the ATP Tour sooner than anticipated.