"Right now tennis is getting slower": Daniil Medvedev highlights alarming trend affecting his game

Former World No.1 Daniil Medvedev may be one of the more physical players on tour, but the Russian has admitted the new style of play is causing a strain on players, which could lead to more injuries.

Known for his willingness to grind out points, Medvedev has stated the balls used by ATP tournaments have become heavier. In addition, the courts are becoming slower, which could lead to the pace of tennis slowing down as players try to adapt to these new conditions. Medvedev is not the only one to complain about the heavier balls, as other players including World No.1 Novak Djokovic have highlighted the frequent changing of balls is not ideal for players.

In a recent interview with Clay, Medvedev, who is currently competing at the 2024 Indian Wells event, again pointed out that the ball issues and on court speed could have serious physical consequences on players as they attempt to change their game to fit the new conditions.

"The balls are getting heavier," elaborated the 2021 US Open champion. "The courts are getting slower. We only see rallies, rallies, rallies. That was different five years ago. Ten years ago, it was different again. So, that’s a clear trend. Let’s see where it develops. Maybe in ten years, we’ll have the fastest hard courts ever. And it’ll be all about serve and volley. Life goes forward and backward.
“Right now, tennis is getting slower. I’m not sure if I really like it. But it’s good for my tennis. However, the physical strain is immense. There are more and more injuries, especially now.”