ATP and WTA Tour Differences
By: Peter D. McCraw
Added: 23/02/10

Introduction & Background

The study investigated the connection between outcome type, percentage of point outcomes and gender.

The intended use of this study is to establish if tennis is played differently on the ATP and WTA Tour andassist in the tactical development of junior tennis players.

There are essentially two shot directions you can hit in tennis – Cross-Court (X) and Down-the-Line (DTL). These two choices result in four possible shot combinations.

Methodology

(1) The study was conducted at Wimbledon (Grass Court) in 2008 on the ATP Tour and Wimbeldon
(Grass Court) in 2007 on the WTA Tour.

(2) Six ATP Main Draw matches, (20 sets, 178 games and 587 points) and 8 WTA Main Draw matches
(18 sets, 171 games, 648 points) were selected at random. Table 1.1 outlines sample size
collected for each Tour.

(3) The last two shots of each point were recorded to identify the point outcome rule.

(4) Each point outcome rule was also classified by outcome type – Winner (W), Unforced Error (Ufe)
and Forced Error (Fe).

For more information click here to view all the relevant data including statistical graphs, conclusions and relevant coaching information