“You’re losing a bit of that variety” – Alex de Minaur on changes in tennis since Roger Federer and Rafale Nadal left the game
Alex de Minaur on Tennis Evolution: “Players Are Hitting Harder Than Ever”
With Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal officially retiring, Australian tennis star Alex de Minaur has observed a shift in the playing style of today’s ATP competitors.
Federer bid farewell at the 2022 Laver Cup, while Nadal followed suit at the 2024 Davis Cup. Although a new generation of stars has taken center stage, it remains difficult to imagine anyone replicating the legendary impact of these two icons.
De Minaur: “Tennis Is Faster and More Power-Driven”
Before his opening-round match at the 2025 Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, the World No. 8 was asked how today’s game compares to when he first broke into the ATP rankings five years ago.
“That’s a great question,” said de Minaur. “I feel like tennis is evolving into a sport where the ball speed is increasing. Players are hitting the ball with a lot more force.”
He noted that the sport is losing some of the variety seen during Federer’s era, with a noticeable emphasis on raw power and pace.
“It feels like everything’s much faster—because of technology, rackets, and the balls. Even though conditions are slower, everyone is hitting the ball so much harder,” he explained.
“The average ball speed—I’d need a fact check—but I’m pretty certain it has gone up since I started on tour. You have less time to think.”
A Different Playing Style Than Nadal’s Era
De Minaur also compared today’s fast-paced game to Nadal’s style, which was known for extreme spin and strategic shot placement.
“In the past, you had someone like Rafa, who played with incredible spin and shape. It was a completely different type of ball, which gave you a little more time to react. It spread the court differently, created more angles.”
“Now, it’s all about speed and power. That’s the best way to describe it. As a player, I’ve had to adapt, find ways to hit the ball harder just to keep up. Adapt or die, yeah.”
Despite his keen observations on the evolving game, de Minaur’s tournament run in Dubai was cut short as he fell to former US Open champion Marin Cilic in the first round. The Croatian veteran secured a hard-fought 6-2, 3-6, 6-3 victory over the Aussie.
