The women’s tennis scene today often requires some explanation. The number one player in the world has never actually managed to win a major title, but she has maintained that ranking spot for quite a long period of time. Playing a full schedule and performing consistently is a huge part of the ranking formula. Players like Serena Williams who have been injured or inconsistent with their playing schedule are often ranked much lower than they should be.
Despite coming into this years US Open as the 28th seed, Williams was almost an outright favorite to win the whole title. Few tennis savvy analysts would have placed much of a bet at all on Caroline Wozniacki, the current number one player in the world. These famous women’s tennis players are two very different players in both playing style and achievement.
Power and Aggression Versus Consistency
It’s no surprise that Williams is an incredible power player. One look at her muscular frame and her strongest attribute is immediately revealed: power. Matches involving Williams will generally come down to how many unforced errors she makes during the match. When she has the rhythm and is consistently hitting her strike zone, there isn’t anyone on the tour that can keep up with her. Her shots are overpowering and dominant against even the best opponents. History has shown that success favors the bold in tennis. Serena is as bold as they come, with a forehand and serve to back it up.
Players like Wozniacki on the other hand rely on their speed and consistency. The simple fact of the matter is that this strategy, while good, isn’t going to beat a player like Williams. Just getting the ball back is a great strategy, but it has to be part of your overall plan. Hitting consistent, high, and loopy balls is just begging the aggressive player to step forward and take control of every point.
Trying to play a match while constantly being on the defensive is a great way to wear out even the best tennis shoes, not to mention the player wearing them. Against players of a lower caliber this strategy can be fantastic. Taking absolutely no risk with every swing and forcing the opponent to make difficult choices is smart play. Not being able to adjust and change from this strategy though, is a fatal flaw. Consistency needs to be evenly matched with aggression to achieve a good balance in a competitive professional match.
Famous Players Win the Titles
Famous tennis players are always the ones that aren’t afraid to go after the ball. Finding that perfect balance is important, but erring on the side of being too aggressive is rarely a mistake. When opportunities present themselves these players will always take them. One key point can turn a match around. Part of being a champion and winning major titles is being able to recognize that during a match. The best female tennis players are effectively consistent, but always unafraid to take chances.