US Open Tennis Ball Controversy: There’s a dispute about US Open tennis balls. Players claim Wilson’s balls caused injuries. Marketa Vondrousova, Wimbledon winner, skipped doubles due to arm pain from the balls. On social media, Vasek Pospisil, a former ATP players’ council member, stated that heavier balls are causing more injuries to wrists, elbows, and shoulders. The key issue is the tennis ball production process. Per ITF rules, tournament balls can vary in diameter by approximately 1/10 inch and weight by around 3 grams. They also have labels that say “regular” or “extra duty,” indicating the felt weave thickness. Both genders use Wilson’s “extra duty” balls this year, leading to numerous complaints and accidents.
Vondrousova, who defeated Stearns in the round of 16, said, “They’re heavy, and the season is long, so you have to fight through it.” She’s still in the singles event and will face Madison Keys in the quarterfinals. Vasek Pospisil wrote on his blog that the balls are “harming our bodies,” as many other players have also mentioned.
Last year, women’s players, led by No. 1 Iga Swiatek, questioned their use of normal duty balls while men used extra duty balls. Swiatek won despite complaining. Stacey Allaster, in charge of the tournament, said the decision is up to the WTA and must be made a year ahead. Caroline Wozniacki said heavier balls “stick to your racquet more,” aiding powerful players. Power players like Rublev, Shelton, Fritz, Ostapenko, and Keys excelled in this year’s event, confirming this point.
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In tennis, ball arguments are common. Players adapt to different balls as they move between tournaments. The recent US Open issues sparked talks of using consistent balls on all surfaces. Jessica Pegula, a WTA Players’ Council member, said talks are ongoing about the ball women will use in 2024. Navratilova expressed concern about the heavier balls, particularly for women in mixed doubles. Her warning was accurate, as Vondrousova quit.
During the US Open, ongoing debates exist about the type of tennis balls used. Due to player health concerns, the tennis community requests a closer examination of ball specifications in professional events. Pegula emphasizes player health as top priority. We’ll need to check it out.