Alexander Zverev has voiced his concerns about the quality of tennis balls used on the ATP Tour, claiming they are contributing to a rise in injuries among players. Zverev, currently one of the top tennis professionals, argues that the “dead” balls being used have altered the dynamics of the game, causing more physical strain on athletes. According to him, the change stems from cost-cutting measures implemented by the ATP, leading to balls that lose their bounce quickly and are harder to play with over extended periods.
Zverev highlighted that these balls require players to exert more effort to generate spin and pace, resulting in increased stress on their bodies. He linked this issue to a notable rise in injuries across the circuit, particularly wrist, elbow, and shoulder problems. The German star pointed out that the durability and performance of the balls have diminished, which not only affects gameplay but also players’ long-term health.
Daniil Medvedev, another leading player on the tour, echoed Zverev’s concerns. Medvedev admitted that he had to adapt his equipment, including switching rackets, to cope with the new ball dynamics. He noted that the balls lose their bounce quickly, especially in cooler conditions, making them harder to control. These factors, he suggested, have made matches more physically demanding.
The issue has sparked widespread discussion among players, with some backing Zverev’s claims and others calling for further investigation. While the ATP has not issued an official response to the criticism, the matter highlights the growing scrutiny of equipment standards in professional tennis. Zverev and Medvedev’s comments underscore the importance of player safety and the potential impact of equipment changes on the physical well-being of athletes.
Zverev also urged the ATP to address the problem promptly, emphasizing that players’ health should take precedence over cost-saving measures. This controversy has reignited debates over the balance between economic considerations and maintaining high-performance standards in sports equipment. The push for transparency and improvements from the players signals the need for a collaborative effort to resolve the issue.
As the debate continues, many in the tennis world are closely watching for ATP’s response and potential changes to the equipment regulations. The players’ demands for better standards aim to ensure not only the quality of the sport but also the sustainability of their careers.
