LONDON — Emma Raducanu’s coach, Mark Petchey, has pointed to heavier tennis balls as a contributing factor in the former US Open champion’s struggles to regain her peak form. Petchey, a respected analyst and former coach, suggested that the increased weight of modern tennis balls has impacted Raducanu’s game, particularly her ability to generate power and maintain consistency.
Raducanu, who stunned the tennis world by winning the 2021 US Open as a qualifier, has faced a series of challenges since her historic triumph, including injuries and fluctuating performances. Petchey, who has worked closely with the British star, emphasized that external factors like equipment changes are playing a role. "The balls are heavier now, and that’s something Emma has had to adjust to," he said in a recent interview.
The Impact of Heavier Tennis Balls
Modern tennis balls have undergone subtle but significant changes in recent years, with manufacturers increasing their weight to slow down the game and extend rallies. While this shift has been welcomed by some players, others—particularly those with a lighter, more aggressive playing style like Raducanu—have struggled to adapt. Petchey explained, "Emma’s game relies on quick, precise strikes. Heavier balls demand more physical exertion, which can lead to fatigue and inconsistency."
The issue isn’t isolated to Raducanu. Several players, including Novak Djokovic and Iga Świątek, have commented on the varying ball weights across tournaments. However, for Raducanu, the adjustment has been particularly challenging due to her recent injury setbacks and the pressure of maintaining her ranking. Petchey noted, "When you’re coming back from injuries, every small change feels magnified. The heavier balls add another layer of difficulty."
Key Challenges Posed by Heavier Balls
- Reduced Power: Heavier balls require more force to generate the same speed, which can disrupt timing.
- Increased Fatigue: Longer rallies and extra effort can lead to quicker exhaustion.
- Inconsistent Bounce: The added weight can alter bounce dynamics, affecting precision.
- Adaptation Period: Players must adjust their technique, which can take time and impact performance.
Raducanu’s Road to Recovery
Despite the challenges, Petchey remains optimistic about Raducanu’s ability to bounce back. "Emma is one of the most talented players I’ve worked with. She has the intelligence and work ethic to adapt, but it’s a process," he said. The coaching team has been focusing on strengthening her physical conditioning and refining her technique to better handle the heavier balls.
Raducanu herself has acknowledged the difficulties but remains determined. In a recent press conference, she stated, "Tennis is always evolving, and so am I. It’s about finding solutions, not excuses. I’m working hard to get back to where I want to be." Her recent performances, including a strong showing at the Stuttgart Open, suggest progress is being made.
Broader Implications for the Game
The debate over tennis ball weight isn’t new, but Raducanu’s situation has brought it back into the spotlight. Petchey believes the sport’s governing bodies should consider standardizing ball specifications to ensure fairness. "When equipment varies so much, it creates an uneven playing field. Consistency would benefit everyone," he argued.
Other coaches and players have echoed similar sentiments. Andy Murray’s former coach, Jamie Delgado, noted, "Heavier balls favor certain playing styles over others. It’s something the tour needs to address if they want to maintain balance." The ATP and WTA have yet to comment on potential changes, but the discussion is gaining traction.
Looking Ahead
As Raducanu continues her journey back to the top, the focus will remain on her ability to adapt to the evolving demands of the game. Petchey’s insights highlight the often-overlooked role of equipment in player performance. "Emma’s story isn’t just about talent; it’s about resilience. She’ll figure this out," he said confidently.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Raducanu prepares for the upcoming grass-court season, where lighter balls traditionally used at Wimbledon could play to her strengths. "Grass is where Emma’s game can really shine. It might be the perfect opportunity for her," Petchey added.
In the meantime, the conversation around tennis ball specifications is likely to continue, with Raducanu’s experiences serving as a case study for the broader implications of equipment changes in the sport. "It’s a reminder that tennis isn’t just about the players—it’s about the tools they use too," Petchey concluded.