Why Tennis Players Keep Balls in Pockets?
Tennis players have been using pockets to keep spare balls during play for decades, and it is a practice that has become a norm in the sport. But why do tennis players keep balls in their pockets?
Keeping an extra ball in their pocket allows players to quickly serve a second time in the event of a fault without wasting time retrieving the ball. Plus, it helps players stay focused and in the zone, as they do not have to worry about losing balls or stopping the game due to misplaced balls.
In this article, we will look at the reasons why tennis players keep balls in their pockets and how it can improve their overall game.
Aside from this we will talk about some problems while having balls in non-serving hands. Also, we will see where female tennis players keep their balls.
Why Tennis Players Keep Balls in Pockets?
Mainly there are two reasons Tennis Players Keep Balls in Pockets:
- Efficiency Boost
- Interference Prevention
Efficiency Boost
One of the main reasons why tennis players keep balls in their pockets is to enhance efficiency during a match.
According to the rules of professional tennis, players can only serve using one ball at a time, which means they must retrieve the ball after every point. By having an extra ball in their pocket, players can quickly retrieve it and avoid time wastage.
Moreover, having a ball ready in their pocket enables players to maintain their pace and focus throughout the game. In case the ball they are using gets worn or loses its bounce, players can switch it with the one in their pocket promptly.
Interference Prevention
Another reason why tennis players keep balls in their pockets is to prevent interference from various sources. Windy conditions can easily blow a stray ball onto the court, which may cause a player to incur a penalty.
By having a ball in their pocket, players can avoid such accidents and maintain the pace of the game.
Additionally, large crowds of spectators can sometimes knock the ball out of a player’s hand, which can interfere with their focus on the game.
Where Do Female Tennis Players Keep the Ball While Playing?
Female tennis players keep the ball in various places while playing, depending on their outfit design.
During a match, a player needs to have a spare ball at hand to serve promptly after the previous point has been completed. Therefore, it is essential to know the right place to keep the ball.
Pockets in Tennis Dresses and Skirts
Some tennis dresses and skirts have side pockets that are big enough to hold a tennis ball. These pockets are usually located on the right or left side of the garment for easy access. When the player is about to serve, she can reach into the pocket and take the ball without any delay.
This type of pocket is especially convenient for female players who prefer to wear dresses or skirts while playing tennis.
Pocket in Undershorts
More often than not, the pocket for holding the spare tennis ball will be in the player’s skirt’s undershorts. The pocket is usually sewn into the undershorts on the side of the hip. This design allows the player to easily access the ball without having to reach too far.
It also ensures that the ball is always within reach while serving.
Tucking the Ball under the Spandex of Undershorts
If neither the skirt nor the undershorts have pockets, players will tuck the ball under the spandex of the undershorts. This technique requires a bit of skill, as the player needs to ensure that the ball does not fall out during the game.
It is also not the most convenient way to keep a spare ball, as it may affect the player’s movement or cause discomfort.
Ball Holder
A ball holder is a small pouch that can be clipped to the back of the skirt’s waistband. The holder usually has enough space to hold a single ball. This method is popular among female tennis players who do not like to wear undershorts or do not have pockets in their outfits.
The ball holder ensures that the ball is always within reach and does not get lost during the match.
Potential Negatives of Holding Balls in Non-Serving Hand While Serving
When it comes to tennis, the serve is one of the most crucial parts of the game. It is the one shot that you have complete control over and can dictate the pace of the game.
However, there is a common habit that many tennis players have adopted when serving, and that is holding balls in their non-serving hand.
While this may seem harmless, it actually has many negative effects on the serve and the overall game.
Decreased Accuracy
One of the biggest negatives of holding balls while serving is the decrease in accuracy. When holding balls in your non-serving hand, it becomes difficult to achieve a proper toss. The position of the ball in your hand affects the height, direction, and spin of the toss. This, in turn, affects the accuracy of the serve.
Even a slight misplacement of the ball can lead to a fault or a weak serve.
Holding balls also puts unnecessary pressure on your non-serving arm, which can affect the overall stability of your body and, hence, your accuracy.
Limited Mobility
Another negative effect of holding balls is the limitation of mobility. Holding balls in your non-serving hand restricts the range of motion of your arm. This can make it difficult to achieve a smooth and fluid motion while serving.
Your arm should be free to move in a natural way to generate the necessary power for a good serve.
The restriction caused by holding balls can lead to a stiff arm, which reduces the potential power of the serve.
Distraction
Holding balls while serving can be a distraction. Not only does it affect your concentration, but it also draws the attention of your opponent. The opponent can see the balls in your hand and anticipate the direction of the serve. This can make it easier for them to return the ball, which puts you at a disadvantage.
Conclusion
Tennis players have long been known to keep balls in their pockets during matches. This practice serves several purposes, including efficiency boost and interference prevention.
Having easy access to a ball, players can save time and energy during gameplay. And keeping a spare ball in their pocket can prevent interference from outside sources, such as spectators or ball boys.
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