Martina Navratilova

Breaking: Martina Navratilova is now cancer-free

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has announced on Twitter that she is cancer-free. Leaving the fans in a joyous mood, Navratilova announced the positive news following a comprehensive day of tests at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

As per the Twitter post, Navratilova thanked all the doctors and nurses for their help. She wrote, “Thank you to all the doctors, nurses, proton and radiation magicians etc- what a relief.”

Back in January, Navratilova, 66, revealed she had been diagnosed with throat cancer and breast cancer and that she would begin treatment the very same month. Navratilova had been diagnosed with a non-invasive form of breast cancer in 2010 and had even undergone a lumpectomy in that context.

The Grand Slam champion had noticed an enlarged lymph node in her neck in November and a biopsy revealed an early stage of throat cancer. But Navratilova felt well enough to return to her TV work with the Tennis Channel by the Miami Open in March.

Martina Navratilova, a Tennis Hall of Famer has a fantastic record. She has won 18 major singles titles, 31 major women’s doubles titles, and 10 major mixed doubles titles, for a combined total of 59 major titles, the most in the Open Era.

The news was met with an awesome response from the Twitteratis. Here are some fantastic replies.

Remembering the forgotten legends of Indian Sports

Remembering the forgotten legends of Indian Sports

Athletes compete, passion ablaze,

Fields and courts, where legends amaze,

Graceful movements, battles unfurled,

Sports, a symphony that stirs the world.

Sports. A spirit that lies within us and an activity that holds a special place in every Indian’s heart. Be it hockey the national sport of  India or cricket- the soul of every sports enthusiast Indians look forward to these events. 

Indians are mad and passionate about sports. Be it cricket or football or hockey, every Indian wears his/her passion on their sleeve to support their favourite athlete.

Did you know India houses the world’s oldest stadium with terraced stands located in Dholavira, Gujarat? Such is the rich history of our country which has produced many sporting legends who have done miraculous tasks on the field to inspire future generations.

In such a sportingly rich country, it is a shame that we have some of our sporting heroes who aren’t being credited as much. Their dedication, sacrifices and bravery deserve wide recognition and appreciation from us.

In this article, we have a look at some of the forgotten legends of India’s sports history. 

The Forgotten Legends of India’s Sports History

Jimmy George- The Flying Indian

Jimmy George- The Flying Indian

Jimmy George, the renowned Indian volleyball player and former captain of the Indian national volleyball team, is widely recognized as one of the greatest volleyball players in history. Often referred to as the “God of Indian volleyball,” he achieved remarkable heights in his career. An important aspect of volleyball is the net, which stands at a height of 2.43 metres. Jimmy’s exceptional attack reach extended to 3.44 metres, nearly one metre more than the net height.

Jimmy George initially played as an amateur for both Kerala and the Indian national team. However, he went on to make history by becoming the first Indian to transition into a professional volleyball player. He competed for professional clubs overseas, most notably in Italy. Jimmy’s skills and talent were widely acknowledged, and he gained significant recognition during his time playing in Italy.

Yet, tragedy struck when the world least expected it. At the tender age of 32, Jimmy’s life was cut short in a devastating road accident in Italy. The news shattered hearts and dimmed the light of Indian volleyball. A void was left, an emptiness that could never be filled.

But even in his untimely departure, George’s legacy remains indelible. His name will forever be whispered with reverence, his memory cherished by those who witnessed his greatness. He will forever be remembered as the youngest volleyball player to receive the prestigious Arjuna Award, a testament to his exceptional contributions to Indian sports.

Nirmal Kaur Saini

Nirmal Kaur Saini

Legends have said, “Behind every successful man is a woman”. We all know Milkha Singh- The Flying Sikh, the track and field sprinter who made India proud by winning various prestigious trophies and medals around the world.  

Nirmal Kaur Saini was the wife of Milkha Singh and the mother of their son Jeev Milkha Singh but very few people know that she was an Indian volleyball player and captain of the India women’s national volleyball team. She was a member of the Punjab volleyball team and has consequently won tournaments while playing with the team. She was the captain of the Indian Volleyball team in the Indo-Ceylon tour held in Sri Lanka.  

Sally Joseph 

Sally Joseph 

Sally Joseph, a Kerala native, was a remarkable and highly skilled volleyball player who left a lasting impact on the sport. Her exceptional abilities on the court set her apart and made her a standout figure among the volleyball players from Kerala. Known for her mesmerising playstyle, she possessed a unique skill set that often overshadowed even male players. Sally Joseph was particularly renowned for her captivating counter-attacking skills, displaying beautiful action and delivering thunderous spikes.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to Indian volleyball, Sally Joseph was honoured with the prestigious “Arjuna Award” in 1984. This esteemed award is granted to athletes who have exhibited exceptional performances and achieved remarkable milestones in their respective sports.

Sally Joseph’s legacy as a highly talented volleyball player from Kerala continues to inspire aspiring athletes. Her extraordinary skills, combined with the recognition of receiving the Arjuna Award, solidify her place among the noteworthy volleyball players in the history of Indian sports.

Nandu Natekar

Nandu Natekar

Nandu M. Natekar was the recipient of the first Arjuna Award instituted in 1961. He was the first Indian badminton player to play and win an international title back in 1956. He has won over 100 international and national titles. Nandu M. Natekar has participated in a number of matches, of which he won 12 out of the 16 singles matches and 8 out of 16 in doubles as part of the Indian team at the Thomas Cup held between 1951 and 1963.

During his playing career, Nandu Natekar represented India in numerous international tournaments and brought home several accolades. He won the National Badminton Championships of India for seven consecutive years from 1953 to 1959, showcasing his dominance and consistency in the sport. He also led the country in the tournament in 1959, 1961 and 1963. He also entered the quarterfinals of the coveted All England Championships in 1954 when he was just 21. 

MJ Gopalan

MJ Gopalan - Indian Sports Legend

Morappakam Josyam Gopalan, fondly called MJ Gopalan was a prominent figure in the field of Indian cricket. He played a significant role as an all-rounder and was associated with the Madras (now Chennai) cricket team.

Gopalan was an exceptional right-arm fast-medium bowler, known for his ability to swing the ball effectively. He represented the Madras cricket team in various tournaments and played a crucial part in their successes.

Gopalan’s cricketing career spanned from the late 1930s to the early 1950s, during which he showcased his skills in both domestic and international matches. His dedication and talent led him to earn the prestigious Madras Presidency cap, a symbol of recognition for exceptional cricketers in the region.

He was more successful in first-class cricket, taking 194 wickets as a fast bowler as well as scoring 2916 runs in 78 matches. Gopalan was a double international, who also represented India at hockey as a centre-half. In 1936, he was faced with a difficult choice when he was picked for both the cricket tour of England and for the hockey team at the Berlin Olympics. Gopalan bowled the first delivery in the Ranji Trophy, against Mysore at Madras in November 1934. 

Raj Singh Dungarpur

Raj Singh Dungarpur - Indian Sports Legend

Raj Singh Dungarpur held the position of president at the Board of Control for Cricket in India. In his role as the chairman of the selection committee, Dungarpur played a pivotal role in introducing Sachin Tendulkar to the international cricket scene. Tendulkar was handpicked by Dungarpur and included in India’s 1989 tour of Pakistan when he was a mere 16 years old. Dungarpur is also acknowledged for his efforts in establishing the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore.

During his cricketing career, Dungarpur represented the Rajasthan cricket team as well as the Central Zone cricket team. He participated in 86 first-class cricket matches spanning from 1955 to 1971, showcasing his skills as a medium-pace bowler and claiming a total of 206 wickets. Among his notable performances, his standout figures of 7 for 88 and 5 for 55 came during Rajasthan’s triumph over Vidarbha in the 1967-68 season. Moreover, Dungarpur assumed the role of Manager for the Indian Cricket team on multiple occasions, contributing to the team’s management and coordination.

Neville D’souza

Neville D’souza - Indian Sports Legend

Neville D’souza played hockey during his academics and represented the Bombay State hockey team in the National Hockey Championship from 1953 to 1955. He began his football career after playing for football clubs in Goa. He scored 4 goals in the 1956 Summer Olympics and was known as one of the finest strikers back in his time.

S. Narayan a former Indian international who played with Neville at the 1956 Summer Olympics said about Neville D’Souza.

Whenever I think about Indian football, his name comes to my mind. After we won, I remember the Australians calling our victory a “fluke” and demanding a rematch at Sydney after the Games ended. They were so stunned at the Olympic loss despite the home advantage that they were adamant about playing us again. We won the re-match with Neville scoring twice. Television was not around when Neville was playing for India at the Olympics and nor were video recordings possible, so people have no way of knowing how good he was in the goalmouth.”

The Mumbai Football Association began organising U-17 Neville D’Souza Trophy for teenagers from seventeen districts in Maharashtra.

Shanti Mullick

Shanti Mullick Indian Legend Of Sports

Shanti Mullick is an Indian former women’s footballer who played as a forward for the India women’s national football team. Mullick is the first Indian women’s footballer to receive the Arjuna Award, the second-highest Indian sports award.

Mullick was born in Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal and her father was also a footballer who served in the military.

Mullick represented India at the AFC Women’s Championships where the team reached the finals twice and finished as runners-up in the 1980 and 1983 editions. She played for the national team managed by legendary Sushil Bhattacharya. Her team also finished in third place in the 1981 edition. She captained the Indian team between 1981 and 1983. Mullick was the first women’s footballer to score a hat-trick for India in a 5–0 victory over Singapore in the 1981 AFC Women’s Championship.

Yolanda D’Souza

Yolanda D'Souza Indian Sports Legend

Yolanda D’Souza Kammermeier, known as ‘The Hat-Trick Queen,’ holds the distinction of being the first woman to achieve an international hat-trick for India. Although she grew up in Calangute, young Yolanda never anticipated that she would become a pivotal figure in the history of Indian women’s football during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Yolanda’s career in football was truly remarkable, garnering her numerous accolades. In 1979, she was honoured with the prestigious Bakshi Bahaddar Jivba Dada Kerkar Award by the Government of Goa. Recognizing her exceptional talent and contributions to the sport, Yolanda was later bestowed with the esteemed title of “Player of the Decade” by the Women’s Football Federation of India (WFFI) in 1980.

One of Yolanda’s significant achievements was being the first female player to score an international hat trick for India. She accomplished this remarkable feat against the Swedish club BET in 1976, etching her name in the annals of Indian football history.

Nirupama Mankad

Nirupama Mankad - Legend of indian sports

Nirupama Mankad is a former Indian tennis player and also the daughter of Tennis legend G. Vasant. Mankad won the Asian women’s tennis championship in 1965 at the age of 17. She introduced Tennis to India before it became mainstream. She was active from 1964 to 1979 and contested 25 finals and won 18 singles titles.

Nirupama Mankad achieved several notable milestones throughout her career. In 1987, she became the first Indian woman to reach the main draw of a Grand Slam tournament when she qualified for the Wimbledon Championships. Her perseverance and skill earned her recognition as a trailblazer for Indian women in tennis.

During her professional tennis career, Mankad participated in both singles and doubles competitions. She was known for her strong baseline game, versatility, and mental toughness on the court. Mankad’s dedication and hard work led to her achieving a career-high singles ranking of 134 in the world.

Nirupama Mankad also represented India in the Fed Cup, the premier international team competition in women’s tennis. Her commitment to the sport and her country helped raise the profile of Indian women’s tennis on the global stage.

After retiring from professional tennis, Mankad continued to contribute to the sport as a coach and mentor. She has been actively involved in nurturing young tennis talents in India and promoting the growth of the game at the grassroots level.

Nirupama Mankad’s achievements and her pioneering role in Indian women’s tennis have left a lasting impact on the sport in the country. She remains an inspiration for aspiring tennis players and a symbol of excellence in Indian tennis history.

Wimbledon prize money increased to a record £44.7 million

Wimbledon set to increase its prize money for the upcoming tournament

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) announced that it has increased the prize pool for Wimbledon to a record 44.7 million pounds ($56.52 million), an 11.2% increase as compared to last year. Based on this raise, the winners and runners-up of the men’s and women’s singles finals will also see their prize money rising to previous levels in 2019, where they received 2.35 million pounds and 1.175 million pounds, respectively.

“We are delighted to offer record prize money to the players competing at the Championships this year, with double-digit increases across the majority of events, “AELTC chairman Ian Hewitt said in their statement. He further added, “Our ambition with this distribution is to return the singles champions and runners-up prize money to the levels in 2019 prior to the (COVID-19) pandemic whilst… providing deserved support for players in the early rounds of the event.”

The Qualifying Competition prize money fund has received a 14.5% increase from last year, while Main Draw Singles players losing in the first round will receive £55,000, a 10% increase in 2022.

The prize pool for the Gentlemen’s and Ladies’ Doubles is a 10.7% increase from last year, while the Wheelchair and Quad Wheelchair Singles and Doubles events all rose by just shy of 20%.

The Wimbledon 2023 will officially start from July 3 to 16.

Novak Djokovic

Novak Djokovic beats Ruud in French Open finals; wins record 23rd Grand Slam title

A new era has begun. After Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal ruled the world of Tennis, it’s Novak Djokovic’s time. The Serbian has just defeated Casper Ruud in the Roland Garros aka French Open finals to win another Grand Slam title. This win makes him top the charts as the player with the most Grand Slam titles, with 23 to his name.

Djokovic finally surpassed his great rivals in the most significant category of all as he defeated Casper Ruud 7-6 (1), 6-3, 7-5 to clinch his 23rd grand slam title, breaking his tie of 22 with Nadal. With the win, Djokovic also now has three titles in Paris and he is the first man to win each grand slam tournament three times. He will also return to No 1 for a record-extending 388th week as the best player in the world.

“Every single player dreams of being on this stage and winning the trophy at least once in their career. I’m beyond fortunate in my life to win 23 times, it’s an incredible feeling,” Djokovic said during his on-court speech. He further added, “It is no coincidence that I won the 23rd Grand Slam here in Paris because this tournament was really in my entire career the toughest to win.”

The Roland Garros win helped the Serbian to move within Margaret Court’s all-time record of 24 Grand Slams after tying Serena Williams for the second most in history. Djokovic will return to world number one for a record-extending 388th week after condemning last year’s runner-up Ruud to his third Grand Slam final defeat in the past five majors.

Many former champions congratulated Djokovic on his record-breaking win. Here’s how Twitter reacted to his remarkable win.

 

 

 

Iga Swiatek

Iga Swiatek marches into the finals of French Open

World No.1 Iga Swiatek marched into the finals of the 2023 French Open aka Roland Garros with a straight-set win over 14th-seeded Beatriz Haddad Maia. Swiatek, chasing her third Roland Garros crown, defeated Maia 6-2, 7-6(9-7) to reach another final.

“It’s really amazing. Honestly, it’s tough to play such a long tournament and I’m pretty happy to be able to play consistently and every year have a good result here, and I’m pretty excited for the final, ” said Swiatek after winning the tennis game.

With Swiatek struggling with her service action and uncomfortable trusting her forehand, Haddad Maia’s awesome power of her groundstrokes, particularly on the forehand side, kept her rival unsettled. She went 3-1 up in the second set, and although Swiatek broke back for 3-3, there was little sign of her running away with the contest.

Indeed, it was Haddad Maia who looked the more confident at the start of the tiebreaker, although an early mini-break was snuffed out by an awesome return winner from Swiatek.

Going into the semi-final, the top seed had lost a total of 15 games in the five previous rounds. Swiatek finished with seven more winners to her left-handed rival’s 18. She also had one more unforced error to the latter’s 25.

This is the third time she has made it to the French Open final. It’s also the second consecutive year she’s gone this far in the Major.

With this win, Iga Swiatek will now face Karolina Muchova in the finals of the French Open. Muchova beat Aryna Sabalenka in the first semi-final.

Samanyu Cyrish wins big at the under-18 lawn tennis tournament

Samanyu Cyrish wins big at the under-18 lawn tennis tournament

It’s a historic day for Indian lawn tennis player Samanyu Cyrish. The youngster has been crowned the men’s singles champion after defeating Ranveer Choudhary 2-0 (6-3, 6-4). Additionally, Cyrish also won the men’s doubles lawn tennis final. For the final, Cyrish was paired with Abhirath Thappa and defeated the duo of Ranveer Choudhary and Saksham Amla in straight sets of 6-3, 6-2.

Suraj Bhan Singh, manager of Indoor Complex M A Stadium, was present as the Chief Guest. After the match, he was quoted as saying, “I appreciate the efforts of the JKLTA for its determination to take this sport to every nook and corner of the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.” He further congratulated the winners and wished them success in future events too.

General secretary of the Association, BS Jaggi who was also present at the occasion thanked the parents and officials of J&K Sports Council for all the help and support.

The three-day event showcased the talents of the participants and received encouraging support from the audience. The presence of a large number of parents on the concluding day boosted the morale of the players.

Antekshika and Mehreen Kour emerged champions of the girl’s doubles lawn tennis match after beating the duo of Myra Vashisht and Tanishka Thusoo 6-1, 6-3. While in the girls’ singles event, Antekshika defeated Myra Vashishth 6-2, 6-3 to take home the trophy.

Top 10 fastest serves recorded in Tennis

Top 10 fastest serves recorded in Tennis

Throughout the history of tennis, having a powerful serve has been a huge advantage for players. Bill Tilden’s powerhouse serve saw him win 10 major titles in the 1920s, and Stan Smith’s strong serves helped him reach the top of the rankings and win two Grand Slam crowns in the 1970s. Over the last few decades, a big serve has become an increasingly important part of a player’s arsenal. 

However, the arrival of bigger racquets constructed of graphite rather than wood in the 1980s signaled a true turning point. In the 1990s, this helped athletes like Pete Sampras and Goran Ivanisevic establish themselves, and as technology advances, serves are becoming faster. 

The astounding 263.4 km/h (163.7 mph) tennis serve speed record was set in 2012 by Sam Groth. Sadly for Sam Groth, the ATP does not officially acknowledge that record because it was set at a Challenger event and because radar guns are not uniformly available or calibrated at that level of competition. The fact that ATP-approved gear was utilized on that day and other data collected appeared to be within a typical range gives Groth some solace. Let’s have a look at the fastest serves recorded in Tennis. 

Top 10 fastest serves recorded in Tennis 

John Isner – 157.2 mph (253 km/h) 

John Isner closes in on incredible 14 000-ace milestone | PlanetSport

Creator: ZUMA Press, Inc. / Alamy Stock Photo | Credit: Alamy Stock Photo Copyright: Credit: ZUMA Press, Inc. / Alamy Stock Photo

Isner also beat Groth during the tie as the USA produced an upset, but they then lost to Croatia in the next round. The American was also involved in the longest tennis match of all time, so is something of a serial record-breaker. Aside from his record-breaking serve during the Davis Cup, John Isner also beat Groth in their tie, helping the USA produce an upset against Australia. However, their success was short-lived, as they eventually lost to Croatia in the next round. 

John Isner has accepted the fact that his greatest asset is his serve, which he believes sets him apart from other players. He views it as a key factor in his success and has a lot of confidence in it. He has stated: “I believe in my serve more than anything. If I’m in a tough spot on the court and I’m able to ace my way out of trouble, then I know I’ve got a good chance of winning the point.” 

Isner’s participation in the longest tennis match of all time further cements his status as a serial record-breaker. Additionally, John Isner holds the record for the most aces in a single match, with 113 aces during his 2010 Wimbledon match against Nicolas Mahut. 

Ivo Karlovic – 156.0 mph (251 km/h) 

Ivo Karlovic, oldest ATP match victor since Connors, wins at 41 - NBC Sports

Creator: Cameron Spencer | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2020 Getty Images

One of the tallest players in the history of men’s tennis, Ivo Karlovic of Croatia, holds the record for the second-fastest serve delivery in a sanctioned match. A serve of 156 mph (251 kph) was delivered by Karlovic while representing Croatia in the Davis Cup match in Zagreb during Croatia’s doubles match versus Germany. 

It was the fastest delivery of that time on the men’s tour, Since Andy Roddick’s serve against Vladimir Volchkov in 2004—also while competing in the Davis Cup—which traveled at 155 mph (249.4 kph). The Croat won several more awards for serving, as his height of 6 feet 10 inches allows him to serve at a distinctive trajectory. Since fellow countryman Goran Ivanisevic served 1,477 aces in 1996, he concluded the year with an astounding 1,318 in 2007. 

Andy Roddick – 155.0 mph (249.4 km/h)

Full Match Video: Andy Roddick vs. Rafael Nadal, 2004 US Open men's singles second round - Official Site of the 2023 US Open Tennis Championships - A USTA Event

Creator: DON EMMERT | Credit: AFP via Getty Images Copyright: 2004 AFP

Andy Roddick rounds out the top three, having achieved his fastest serve during the team tournament, so there must be something about the Davis Cup and gigantic serves. The fact that the American was mostly a serve-and-volley player enabled him to win the US Open in 2003 and advance to three Wimbledon finals. 

In the tournament’s semi-final match, Roddick had a speed of 249.4 km/h (155.0 mph) as the USA defeated Belarus. Nevertheless, in the championship match, Spain defeated the Americans as a youthful Rafael Nadal defeated Andy Roddick in four sets. The fastest serve ever timed at Wimbledon was made by Roddick that year, and it stood until 2010. The American Taylor Dent set the current Wimbledon record for the fastest serve in 2010 with a speed of 238.2 km/h (148 mph). 

Milos Raonic – 155.0 mph (249.4 km/h) 

Sidelined by injuries since 2021, can Milos Raonic and Kei Nishikori return to the top 20 in the world?

Creator: JOHN DONEGAN | Credit: AFP via Getty Images

Technically speaking, Canada’s Milos Raonic is equal to Andy Roddick’s 249.4 km/h (155.0 mph) because he beat Ryan Harrison at the 2012 SAP Open at the same speed. Raonic eventually defeated Denis Istomin in the tournament’s championship match in straight sets. Roddick will be placed ahead of him on the list, even though his best performance was eight years ago. 

Ryan Harrison – 152.0 mph (244.6 km/h) 

Ryan Harrison | Tennis Buzz | Flickr

Creator: Tennis Buzz

American Harrison set a speed record of 244.6 km/h (152.0 mph) at the 2013 Masters 1000 Western & Southern Open. Harrison, who entered as a wildcard, gave it his best shot against David Ferrer but ultimately lost to the Spaniard in three sets. Feliciano Lopez of Spain made a serve at Queen’s Club the following year that was recorded at the same speed, but he was unable to crack our top five since the Western & Southern Open is a bigger competition because the 2014 Aegon Championships was an ATP World Tour 250 series event. 

Feliciano Lopez – 152.0 mph (244.6 km/h) 

Feliciano Lopez | Overview | ATP Tour | Tennis

Creator: Adam Pretty Copyright: 2022 Getty Images

Tennis player Feliciano Lopez from Spain managed to achieve a career-high ranking of 12 in 2015. Feliciano Lopez has been a part of the scene for a very long time, and many people appear to have forgotten what a fantastic server he was back in the day. At the Aegon Championships in 2014, he delivered one of the fastest serves ever. In the first-round match, the Spaniard smacked the ball to serve at 244.6 km/h (152 mph) speed. 

Marius Copil – 151.6 mph (244 km/h) 

1,420 Marius Copil Photos and Premium High Res Pictures - Getty Images

Creator: Mitchell Layton | Credit: Getty Images Copyright: 2018 Getty Images

 

 

Marius Copil is putting on some of his best performances, even though he has never cracked the top 50 in the world rankings. Due to his exceptional skill, he ended 2018 as the 57th-best player in the world. He still has a chance to make it big and have a prosperous career. 

But he has always relied most on his serve, which has given him an exceptional track record. In the 2016 European Open quarterfinals, the Romanian flawlessly placed the ball and recorded a speed of 244 km/h (151.6 mph). 

Hubert Hurkacz – 151.0 mph (243 km/h) 

Hubert Hurkacz Wins Decisive Tie-break To Edge Nick Kyrgios & Reach First Grass Final | ATP Tour | Tennis

Creator: Mathias Schulz Copyright: © 2022 Mathias Schulz

The No. 11 player in the world is a 6’5″ monster with a very powerful swing. His smashing serves have been his x-factor in his career so far, and at 26 years old, he might already be at his peak. He had a few victories at Grand Slam competitions but nothing major. However, he delivered his fastest serve ever at the 2016 Davis Cup. Despite his team’s humiliating defeat in the tournament, Hurkacz offered his colleagues something to cheer about. When the Polish player served, he let the ball fly and noticed that the speedometer showed 243 km/h. 

Taylor Dent – 149.8 mph (241.1 km/h) 

 

Taylor Dent | US Men's Clay Court Championships, River Oaks … | Flickr

Creator: CageEcho Source: Flickr

There was a time when Andy Roddick and Taylor Dent were regarded as the game’s two most difficult servers. Dent reached the fourth round of a couple of Grand Slams while not having quite as many accomplishments as Roddick. Taylor Dent is the only player in our Top 10 who has proven his versatility on Clay. Despite a career marked by illnesses, he managed to reach a career-high ranking of No. 21. 

The American startled the crowd with a 240 km/h (149.1 mph) serve during the first round of the 2010 French Open. He has ranked among the top ten fastest serves in tennis history thanks to this serve, which went on to become the fastest in the tournament’s history. 

Juan Martin del Potro – 149.1 mph (240km/h) 

Juan Martin del Potro says he can't accept life without tennis

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Unsurprisingly, Juan Martin del Potro, commonly known as “The Tower of Tandil,” appears on the list. The US Open winner is undoubtedly the best Argentinean player of his generation. 

Out of all the players who are in the top 10, no one else hit it in the deciding match that they won. Del Potro defeated Grigor Dimitrov in straight sets to win the Stockholm Open in 2017. (6-4, 6-2). He didn’t forget to serve at 149.1 mph during the process. However, his entire effort earned him a spot in our list of the Top 10 fastest serves in tennis history, moving him up to position 10.

The Top 9 Tennis Strings available in 2023

The Top 9 Tennis Strings available in 2023

Tennis strings can be a concern shared by professional tennis players such as Rafael Nadal and Serena William, as well as everyday players. If you are looking for the best tennis strings, you have come to the right place. This guide will provide all the information you need. 

It can be difficult to choose the right strings for your racket, regardless of your skill level. Whether you are an experienced player or a beginner, the strings you use will make a big difference in your game. Don’t worry, though! We are here to provide guidance and advice to help you make an informed decision. 

In this article, we will cover all the information you need to select the perfect string for your racket. We will discuss the features of different types of strings, their technical details, and more. Additionally, we have reviewed some of the top tennis strings to help make your decision simpler. Let’s get started! 

How To Choose a Tennis String 

To ensure that this guide is comprehensive and covers a variety of skill levels, we went through an extensive process of researching, playtesting, and reviewing a wide range of strings. We have included different categories and brands to meet everyone’s needs and preferences. 

When selecting strings for this guide, we considered key factors essential for string performance, such as power, spin, control, comfort, and durability. Our reviews provide honest assessments of each product, including pros and cons, so you can be aware of what you’re getting. We have outlined strings for all kinds of players, with specifications included, to help make your selection based on your game style, skill level, and physical capabilities. 

The Top 9 Tennis Strings in 2023 

Our team has undergone a rigorous playtesting and selection process to determine the best tennis strings for all categories. From beginners to professionals, we have put together a guide to help you make a well-informed decision. There are many great strings on the market, but some clearly stand out from the rest. We’re here to help you make the smartest choice for yourself. 

Babolat VS Touch 

After careful consideration, we chose Babolat VS Touch as the best overall tennis string. It features natural gut material and offers excellent power, feels, and control that you can sense with every stroke. Undoubtedly, this is one of the top strings on the market. 

Touch VS 12M

Credit: Babolat

The unique qualities of Babolat VS Touch strings make them incredibly comfortable for your arm, even if you choose to increase the tension levels. The only downside is that they may not be as effective when it comes to spin for more advanced players. Nonetheless, these strings are a great choice for all types of players. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Natural gut 
  • Gauge: 15 L,16 L 
  • Length: 39.3 ft / 12 m 
  • Shape: Round

Pros 

  • Incredible feel 
  • Very comfortable 
  • High level of control 
  • Don’t lose features in higher tension 

Cons 

  • Doesn’t generate heavy spin 
  • Expensive price 

Tecnifibre X-One Biphase 

If power is what you’re after, Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings are a great choice. During our playtest, we noted their impressive power that can easily be tapped into. Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings are constructed from a combination of different materials and have been designed to provide optimal levels of both control and power. 

Credit: Tecnifibre

The special construction creates a unique balance between comfort and performance, making them an excellent option for all players. Additionally, Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings are highly durable and resilient, so you won’t have to worry about replacing them too often. 

Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings can reduce shock and vibration, making them incredibly comfortable for the arm. The feel these strings deliver is great, especially at the net and in other areas of the court. As anticipated, they are not very spin-friendly. 

We noticed that these strings don’t offer much control, which is typical for strings with such a high power level. It can be difficult to control and accurately place the ball when playing. Fortunately, players can adjust and tweak the strings to find a better balance between power and control. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Multifilament 
  • Gauge: 16L, 17L, 18L 
  • Length: 40 ft / 12.2 m 
  • Shape: Round 

Pros 

  • High level of power 
  • Excellent feel 
  • Absorb shock and vibrations 
  • Comfortable for the arm 

Cons 

  • Low control 
  • Not too much spin 

Wilson Synthetic Gut Power Tennis String

If you are looking for a great product at an affordable price, then Wilson Synthetic Gut Power tennis strings should be your go-to choice. These strings offer excellent performance for a wide range of players, from beginners to intermediates. 

Credit: Wilson

Wilson Synthetic Gut Power strings stood out during our playtest for their impressive power output. They maintain tension well, have great longevity, and are very affordable. Spin isn’t their strong suit, but they still provide satisfactory results. The Wilson strings provide a crisp and comfortable feel, making the racket feel like an extension of your hand. Additionally, they are known for their ability to reduce shock and absorb vibration, giving you a comfortable experience with every shot. 

Wilson Synthetic Gut Power strings are highly versatile, making them a great choice for a variety of skill levels. They provide excellent power and control for such an affordable price and have great durability with little maintenance required. The feel and comfort these strings offer to make them a great option for players of all levels. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Nylon 
  • Gauge: 16L 
  • Length: 40 ft / 12.2 m 
  • Shape: Round 

Pros 

  • Good performance 
  • High power 
  • Comfortable for the arm 
  • Nice crispy feel 
  • Durable 

Cons 

  • Couldn’t find any 

Babolat RPM Blast 

If you are looking for strings that can deliver a heavy spin, the Babolat RPM Blast strings may be a perfect choice. These polyester strings generate a powerful topspin, making them a great choice, especially for forehand and backhand slices. During our playtest, Babolat RPM Blast strings were a clear favorite. 

RPM Blast 12M

Credit: Babolat

Not only do Babolat RPM Blast strings provide excellent spin, but they also give you great control over your shots. These strings make it easy to direct the ball as desired on the court, making them a great confidence booster. Plus, they are highly durable and won’t need to be replaced often. The main downside of Babolat RPM Blast strings is their lack of power, making them unsuitable for beginners or players who cannot generate a lot of power. But they are perfect for higher-level players who prioritize spin and control. 

Babolat RPM Blast strings are constructed from polyester and have been designed to provide maximum spin with ultimate control. Thanks to their durability and resilience, they can last longer and will not require frequent replacements. They are a great choice for intermediate to advanced-level players who are looking for strings that prioritize spin over power. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Polyester 
  • Gauge: 16L 
  • Length: 39.3 ft / 12 m 
  • Shape: Octagonal 

Pros 

  • Heavy spin 
  • Control 
  • The precision of the shots 
  • Durable 

Cons 

  • Low level of power 

Solinco Hyper-G 

Solinco Hyper-G strings are a great choice for players who are looking for superior control. With these strings, you can accurately direct the ball to where you want, even with fast and deep swings. Solinco Hyper-G strings provide amazing spin with great performance, particularly at the back of the court. Additionally, they offer a surprisingly crisp feel considering they are constructed from polyester. Solinco Hyper-G strings offer low power, making them a better option for intermediate to advanced players. It is important to note that these strings may lack comfort and not be suitable for recreational or injured players. 

Credit: Solinco Sports

Solinco Hyper-G strings have been designed to provide superior control and spin. The polyester material offers a crisp feel but there is also a noticeable lack of power. These strings are best suited for intermediate to advanced players who prioritize control and spin over power and comfort. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Polyester 
  • Gauge: 16 L, 17L 
  • Length: 39.6 ft / 12.1 m 
  • Shape: Square 

Pros 

  • High level of control 
  • Heavy topspin 
  • Nice feel 
  • Great performance 
  • Speed 

Cons

  • Lack of power 
  • Uncomfortable for the arm 

Solinco Hyper-G Heaven 

We featured Solinco Hyper G– Heaven twice in this list, and many players from all around the world rate them as the most popular strings. These strings are renowned for their superior control and spin, making them a favorite for intermediate to advanced players. 

Credit: Solinco Sports

Solinco Hyper- G Heaven has built an impressive following, making them highly sought after and one of the best-selling strings. The feedback from customers confirms their superior quality and performance. These strings are specifically suited for intermediate to advanced players looking for ultimate control, which is essential for those who play aggressively and have the physical strength to do so. 

Solinco Hyper- G Heaven strings have excellent power and snap back into place quickly after each shot, giving you more speed. The strings’ heavy spin and great feel are truly remarkable, which is why we featured them twice in this guide. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Polyester 
  • Gauge: 16 L, 17L 
  • Length: 39.6 ft / 12.1 m 
  • Shape: Square 

Pros 

  • High level of control 
  • Heavy topspin 
  • Nice feel 
  • Great performance 
  • Speed 

Cons 

  • Lack of power 
  • Uncomfortable for the arm 

Tecnifibre X-One Biphase 

We’ve featured Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings twice in our list due to their incredible comfort level. These are the most arm-friendly strings on the market, making them a great choice for those suffering from elbow pain or injury. Tecnifibre X-One Biphase strings are constructed from a combination of different materials for optimal levels of control and power. These strings provide excellent comfort, durability, and resilience, making them a great choice for players at all levels. 

Credit: Tecnifibre

The combination of power and control makes them an ideal option for those dealing with elbow pain or injury. The thousands of fibers from the multifilament material do an incredible job of absorbing shock and reducing impact for every shot. Despite this, the strings still provide lots of lively responses. The Tecnifibre strings offer a crisp feel and high power with minimal effort, so you won’t have to use a lot of energy when hitting the ball.

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Multifilament 
  • Gauge: 16L, 17L, 18L 
  • Length: 40 ft / 12.2 m 
  • Shape: Round 

Pros 

  • High level of powers 
  • Excellent feel 
  • Absorb shock and vibrations 
  • Comfortable for the arm 

Cons 

  • Low control 
  • Not too much spin 

Luxilon ALU Power 

Luxilon ALU Power tennis strings are well-known among experienced players, so much so that even professionals and advanced players use them. That’s how good they are! The Luxilon strings offer an impressive performance when put to the test. We especially noted the excellent control they provide, which is a major advantage. With these tennis strings, the ball can be directed with accuracy and yet still maintain a great feel. The full force of swings can still be enjoyed without compromising control. 

Credit: Luxilon

The strings also offer a high level of spin and speed, making them perfect for intermediate and advanced players. They are also incredibly resilient and designed to maintain tension over long periods. The only downside these strings have is the low level of power. We recommend the Luxilon ALU Power as the best tennis strings for intermediate players, due to their enhanced features, in terms of spin, speed, control, and durability. 

These strings are designed to deliver a high level of spin, speed, and control for intermediate players who want more precision and accuracy in their game. They are also incredibly durable and can maintain tension for long periods. The only downside of these strings is their lack of power, which might make them less desirable for advanced players who need more power in their shots. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Synthetic 
  • Gauge: 16L 
  • Length: 40 ft / 12.2 m 
  • Shape: Pentagon 

Pros 

  • Great level of control 
  • Nice feel 
  • Full powerful swings 
  • Heavy spin and speed 
  • Durable

Cons 

  • Low powered 

Prince Premier Touch Tennis String 

The Prince Premier Touch tennis strings are designed to be highly durable and can maintain tension over long periods. When you eventually decide to change the strings, it won’t be because they have been broken or heavily damaged. The Prince Premier Touch tennis strings offer decent performance without excelling in any particular category.

Prince Premier Touch 16/1.30 String

However, due to their low price, they are a great and affordable choice for recreational-level players who hit the court sporadically but need long-lasting strings. The playtest showed that these strings were not great for control or feeling, but this is not a major concern for recreational players who don’t need these features while playing. 

Product Specifications 

  • Type: Multifilaments 
  • Gauge: 16L, 17L 
  • Length: 40 ft / 12.2m 
  • Shape: Cube cross 

Pros 

  • Very durable 
  • Overall good performance 
  • Great price 
  • Maintain tension 

Cons 

  • Lack of control 
  • Feel 

Conclusion: Our Pick for the Best Tennis String 

Among the many great options available, we believe Babolat VS Touch strings stand out as the best overall. Made with a natural gut, these strings offer superior levels of power, feel, and performance, all while providing comfort. 

Another widely favored choice was the Solinco Hyper-G strings, making them twice in our list as the best option for control and popularity. These strings are well-suited for high intermediate and advanced players who can benefit from their high control, spin, and speed levels.

Tennis Olympics

Mirza-Bopanna crumbles under pressure; loses AO mixed doubles final

Sania Mirza, one of India’s greatest sporting heroes, wanted to end her career on a high. However, fate had other things for her. The Indian pair of Sania Mirza and Rohan Bopanna lost 6-7(2) 2-6 to the Brazilian duo Rafael Matos and Luisa Stefani in the Australian Open mixed doubles final.

The Indian pair played tremendously. After the initial hiccups, the duo showed exemplary grit and determination to bounce back. But, the Brazilian team, Matos and Stefani, continued with the momentum to break the Indian duo in the second set. Sania and Bopanna showed glimpses of their brilliance, but it just wasn’t enough for them to force a comeback. They eventually lost 6-7 (2), 2-6.

Sania, who announced her retirement a few days back, said, “My professional career started in Melbourne… I couldn’t think of a better arena to finish my [Grand Slam] career at.”

The Hyderabad-based tennis player has won six major titles- three in women’s doubles and three in mixed doubles. The former World number 1 doubles player has also won eight Asian Games medals and two Commonwealth Games medals. Mirza was conferred with the Arjuna Award in 2004, Padma Shri in 2006, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2015, and Padma Shri in 2016.

Longest Tennis matches of all time

Revisiting the Longest Tennis Match of All Time

Tennis is a challenging sport. It is a contest of talent, cunning, and accuracy. The game continues until one player scores the required number of points or until a player quits or retires in the middle of the court due to injury or exhaustion and is unable to continue. This is the precise reason why games that last a long time are so appealing.

The audience is kept on the edge of their seats by it. Exactly this is what happened on January 30, 2022, when Rafael Nadal, one of the greatest players of all time, defeated Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open 2022. The 5 hours, 24-minute final was won by the Spaniard. In addition, it allowed Nadal to surpass players like Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic by becoming the first tennis player to win 21 Grand Slam titles. Despite this, the match isn’t anywhere close to being the longest tennis match ever played. 

However, the longest tennis match took place in 2010, which lasted for 11 hours and 5 minutes. It was played between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon. The match began on Tuesday, 22 June 2010 and lasted until Friday of the same week. During this time, John Isner and Nicolas Mahut played 183 games in total. The match’s final score was 6-4, 3-6, 6-7 (7-9), 7-6 (7-3), and 70-68 for Isner. 

Both players endured considerable physical and mental exhaustion during the match to reach this point, with Isner serving a total of 112 aces and Mahut 103. It was described as the greatest in tennis history by commentators and analysts alike. 

The longest Tennis match of all time: 

John Isner vs Nicolas Mahut: 2010 Wimbledon (11 hours and 5 minutes) 

John Isner and Nicolas Mahut broke several records during their match. Most notably, the match was the longest tennis match ever to be played in terms of time, lasting 11 hours and 5 minutes. It was also the match with the highest number of total games played (183) and the longest set (the fifth set lasted 70-68). The match also saw both players serve the most aces in a single match; Isner served 112 aces, while Mahut served 103. 

John Isner vs Nicolas Mahut

John Isner vs Nicolas Mahut

In total, John Isner and Nicolas Mahut served 215 aces during their 11-hour and 5-minute match at Wimbledon. The longest tennis match before the Isner-Mahut match was the men’s singles final at the 2004 French Open between Gaston Gaudio and Guillermo Coria. The match lasted six hours and 33 minutes, with Coria eventually winning 3-6, 3-6, 6-4, 6-1, and 8-6. 

Many people have praised the Isner-Mahut match for its remarkable display of skill and determination. Legendary tennis player Björn Borg referred to it as “a milestone in modern tennis”. Commentator John McEnroe lauded the match as “a great benefit for the world of tennis”, while American television personality Jimmy Kimmel described it as “an epic moment in sports history”. 

The men’s singles championship of the 2010 Wimbledon Championships was won by Rafael Nadal, who defeated Tomas Berdych in straight sets. John Isner and Nicolas Mahut both spoke about the match with great respect for their opponent. Isner said that he was “very proud to have been part of such an amazing occasion, ” while Mahut commented, “it was truly a special match, and I will never forget it.” 

John Isner said, “It was an honour to be part of such an incredible match, and I’m very proud to have been part of it. I wish the match could have gone on forever.”

Nicolas Mahut commented, “It was truly a special match, and I will never forget it. I’m lucky to have been part of history and I am sure it will remain a legendary moment in tennis.” 

Here are some interesting facts about the Isner-Mahut match 

– The match had a combined total of 909 points 

– The longest rally between the two players spanned 36 shots 

– Isner’s longest service game lasted over 40 minutes 

– The match was featured in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the longest tennis match ever played 

– Isner and Mahut were given a standing ovation when they completed the fifth set – It was the first time Wimbledon had to suspend play due to darkness 

– The match saw 205,000 people watched it live on the BBC website 

– It was the second-most viewed match at Wimbledon that year, behind the men’s singles final between Rafael Nadal and Tomas Berdych 

– It was the first time Wimbledon had to suspend play due to darkness 

 

What Tennis players had to say about the Isner-Mahut match: 

“The Isner-Mahut match was an extraordinary display of courage and endurance that will be remembered as one of the greatest sporting events of all time.” – Roger Federer 

“John Isner and Nicolas Mahut’s match at Wimbledon in 2010 was a remarkable display of human achievement and resilience.” – Novak Djokovic 

“What Isner and Mahut did at Wimbledon in 2010 was nothing short of incredible. They pushed tennis to its limits and showed us what it means to never give up.” – Andy Murray 

“The Isner-Mahut match was an incredible show of willpower, tenacity, and determination.” – Rafael Nadal 

“No other tennis match has made such an impression on me as the Isner-Mahut match. It was one of the most remarkable displays of endurance and sportsmanship that I have ever seen.” – Serena Williams 

“The Isner-Mahut epic produced a record that may never be broken and will live on in the annals of the greatest sporting moments of all time.” – Andy Roddick

Top 10 longest tennis matches of all time: 

  1. John Isner vs Nicolas Mahut – 2010 Wimbledon (11 hours and 5 minutes)
  2.  Fabrice Santoro vs Arnaud Clement – 2004 French Open (6 hours and 33 minutes)
  3.  Younes El Aynaoui vs. Andy Roddick – 2003 Australian Open (5 hours and 22 minutes)
  4.  Kevin Anderson vs. John Isner – 2018 Wimbledon (6 hours and 36 minutes)
  5.  Novak Djokovic vs. Juan Martín del Potro – 2013 US Open (5 hours and 53 minutes)
  6.  Roger Federer vs. Rafael Nadal – 2008 Wimbledon (4 hours and 48 minutes)
  7.  Novak Djokovic vs. Rafael Nadal – 2012 Australian Open (5 hours and 53 minutes)
  8.  Andy Murray vs. Novak Djokovic – 2012 US Open (4 hours and 54 minutes)
  9.  Michael Chang vs. Ivan Lendl – 1989 French Open (4 hours and 37 minutes)
  10.  Gilles Muller vs. Rafael Nadal – 2017 Wimbledon (4 hours and 48 minutes).
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