The Hopman Cup is introducing FAST 4 format

By
Mark Hall
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There is a big debate in tennis about new and faster formats. The ATP has introduced new rules for doubles such as the super tiebreak in the third set and the no-AD system. Tennis Australia has tried to launch the FAST 4 format in some exhibition, and now they are taking another step in Perth.

The Hopman Cup director, Paul Kilderry, announced that they will apply the FAST 4 format in mixed doubles.

What’s the FAST 4 format?

They call it FAST 4 because you win a game after 4 points (i.e.,. No-AD format); you win a set after conquering four games.

Therefore there are 4 key rules:
1- No-AD system;
2- Lets on serve are player;
3- Tiebreak apply on 3-all (5 points to win a tiebreak);
4- The first to conquer 4 games wins the set.

The format was initiated in Melbourne in 2014 during an exhibition between Roger Federer and home favorite Lleyton Hewitt. The Swiss won that match 4–3(5–3) 2–4, 3–4(3–5) 4–0, 4–2.

FAST 4 in Sydney

The 9th of January there will be an exhibition in Sydney that will be played with the FAST 4 format. Nadal, Nishikori, Tomic and Kyrgios will take part of it.