GENDER DIFFERENCES IN TECHNICAL FEATURES OF ELITE JUNIOR TENNIS PLAYERS AND IN THE TECHNOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THEIR RACKETS

Abstract

Introduction: The more precise observation of tennis players is essential to reach the best competitive performance in junior level as well. Objective: The aim of the research was to test the hypothesis that the majority of elite junior tennis players are right-handed and most of them use the two-handed backhand stroke and modern forehand and backhand grips. Furthermore the technical characteristics of the rackets used well reflect the differences in gender. Method: 40 elite male (15.92 age) and 40 elite female (16.34 age) tennis players participated in our research. Testing was carried out with calibrated means and equipment based on standard protocols. Results: 92.5% of the males and 95% of the females are right-handed. 65% of the females and 72.5% of the males use the modern semi-western forehand grip. As far as backhand groundstrokes are concerned, the frequency of the two-handed backhand stroke is 95% for females and 80% for males. 40% of the males and females used the modern two-handed backhand grip. The males used a significantly longer and heavier racket of greater swing weight than the females (p<0.05). On the other hand, females tennis players used a significantly bigger head size with a stiffer and wider frame racket than the males (p<0.05). Conclusions: The results draw attention to that the dominant arm, grips, backhand type and used rackets’ characteristic give useful information for the trends in the preparation of the elite junior tennis players.