The tennis world has been abuzz with discussions about the quality and consistency of tennis balls used in professional matches. This controversy gained further traction after Carlos Alcaraz, the world No. 3, voiced his concerns about the potential injury risks posed by the varying conditions of tennis balls across different tournaments.
Alcaraz’s comments came after he experienced an oblique injury, which he attributed to the “dead” tennis balls used in Australia. He emphasized the need for change, stating, “Every week, practically every week, we have different balls, different conditions, so it’s complicated to adapt to them. I think last year there were many injuries, many players with elbow or shoulder issues, something needs to change.”
Aryna Sabalenka, the world No. 1, has also joined the conversation, sharing her own experience with the issue. During practice sessions ahead of the WTA 1000 event in Doha, Sabalenka took to social media to highlight the drastic difference between a new tennis ball and one that had been used for just 25 minutes. She captioned her post, “25min vs new. Crazy difference,” showcasing the worn-out ball next to a fresh one.
Sabalenka’s post resonated with many players and fans who have long criticized the quick deterioration of tennis balls during matches. The rapid wear and tear can lead to slower gameplay and increased physical strain on players, potentially causing injuries.
The ATP Tour has been experimenting with more durable balls to accommodate different court surfaces, but this has not been without its challenges. Taylor Fritz, another top player, echoed Alcaraz’s sentiments, revealing that he sustained an injury due to the poor quality of balls used in Australia.
Sabalenka’s strong stance on the issue has sparked a broader debate about the need for standardized tennis balls that can maintain their quality throughout matches. As the tennis community continues to grapple with this issue, it remains to be seen whether governing bodies will take steps to address the players’ concerns and ensure a safer playing environment.
The voices of Alcaraz and Sabalenka have undoubtedly brought much-needed attention to the matter, and their advocacy for change may pave the way for improvements in the sport. As fans and players alike await a resolution, the hope is that the focus will remain on the well-being of the athletes and the integrity of the game.
Alcaraz in Rotterdam, ranking, and results in 2025
Now the world no.3, the Spaniard achieved a composed 6-1 win-loss record in 2025. Alcaraz is playing in Rotterdam where he overcame the world no.84 Botic Van De Zandschulp 7-6(3) 3-6 6-1
and the world no.317 Andrea Vavassori 6-2 6-1.Carlos Alcaraz will fight against the world no.44 Pedro Martinez Portero in the quarter on Friday at 7:30 pm on CENTRE COURT . Their head to head is 3-0 for Alcaraz.
The Spaniard won 17 titles in his career: 5 on hard courts, 8 on clay courts, 1 on indoor courts and 3 on grass courts. (See the list of his titles)
He is also scheduled to play in Doha (Qatar ExxonMobil Open) on the 17th of February and Indian Wells (BNP Paribas Open) on the 3rd of March.
Aryna Sabalenka in 2025
Now ranked no.1, Aryna played her last match on the 25th of January when she lost to world no.7 Madison Keys 6-3 2-6 7-5 in the final of the Australian Open (draw).
During this season Aryna owns a 11-1 win-loss record. Aryna clinched 1 title in Brisbane. Aryna got to the final at the Australian Open.
Sabalenka will play next in Doha (Qatar TotalEnergies Open). She will start the tournament from the main draw that will commence on the 10th of February.