Few sports in the world have seen as much progress and improvement since their initial invention as those to have been enhanced by technology have.
Tennis is an example of a sport which has experienced substantial expansion and development due to technological advancements, from players’ equipment and viewing options for fans alike. These changes have ushered in many changes that have altered and advanced the sport for good.
Tennis Equipment
Technology’s greatest contribution to tennis can be seen in its effect on the equipment players now have available to them. In the earlier days of the sport, players would use wood racquets with basic strings made of basic material for optimal performance only. These components did not offer anything beyond being able to hit harder shots at the ball. Now, however, technological innovation has revolutionized both components.
Today’s players are able to use racquets made from metal materials like graphite or carbon fibre for use. Both lightweight materials make it easier for players to hold for extended periods while being more durable than wood once used. Technology also plays an integral part here, as synthetic strings now enable harder hits as well as greater spin capabilities on balls being hit harder. Technology has a significant on things like tennis court windscreen.
Tennis Balls
Over the years, tennis balls have undergone numerous technological innovations that have revolutionized and changed the sport – providing players with higher-quality equipment for more intense competitions.
Early balls were typically heavier compared to what’s being used today, being constructed out of rubber without using pressurized air as seen today. Pressurized air has transformed balls by increasing their bounce time, which in turn allows players to participate in rallies while providing spectators a captivating viewing experience.
Live Streaming Technology
In regard to watching the sport, live streaming technology has given audiences the ability to watch their favorite tennis stars whenever they want, thus making the sport more accessible.
The internet has been a driving force for this technology, with many able to visit general sites and even betting sites where they can wager as they watch a tennis livestream at a moment’s notice. This has given the sport access to potential new audiences while also allowing it to compete with some of the other most popular games that are played on a global scale, such as soccer.
Viewing Experiences Enhanced
TV audiences and attendees at some of the major tournaments, such as Grand Slams or majors, have both found their viewing experiences significantly enhanced in various ways.
Fans are now able to access instant replays of shots made and key moments missed during games. At the same time, umpires have used technology such as HawkEye in recent decades to make decisions more easily – for instance, when shots hit the line, but it is unclear if it bounced in or out. Fans can watch instant replays of shots made and key moments missed throughout a match-up! Plus, fans are now able to experience live matches more intimately as they can get caught up in all of the emotions that might be being experienced by those courtside, despite watching at home or in a social environment!
Wearable Technology
Wearable tech has become an increasingly popular trend across all sports, including tennis. Players now have access to devices that track their performance, heart rate, and other essential health indicators – enabling them to monitor their health more closely while improving performance with data-driven insights. Health has become more important than ever, especially with the physical demands that competitive sport can have on an athlete’s body. Wearables have ensured competitors stay safe, while also allowing them to find potential strengths and weaknesses that can help them improve their overall game.
Technology will continue to advance tennis
No doubt technology has revolutionized tennis into what it is today. Yet, we should keep in mind its role may continue to develop and advance at rapid rates, bringing with it more innovations to enhance and develop further the game – like VR technology for fans or new technologies that benefit athletes playing tennis themselves. Imagine being able to watch the Wimbledon final live from your living room?! It might be something that some of us will have the experience to do in the future, thus potentially changing the landscape of the sport forever.
