Minor Changes, Major Rewards – Interactive Tennis Graphic

Rafael Nadal’s ground strokes have played a major role in his success. John Yandell, who studies various stroke techniques in professional tennis, said that Nadal has actually improved technically this year. Yandell, who founded tennisplayer.net, analyzed Nadal’s forehand and backhand.

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Nadal’s Quick Forehand Snap

Rafael Nadal’s recent hot streak — including back-to-back Grand Slam championships at the French Open and Wimbledon — has propelled him past Roger Federer to No. 1 in the world.

One reason for Nadal’s climb is his unique forehand, one that generates significantly more spin than most other players on tour.

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The Master of Clay Takes Aim at the Fast Courts

Different Surfaces, Different Play

Rafael Nadal is a master on clay, winning the past three French Opens. But to win on the faster surfaces of Wimbledon’s grass and the hardcourts of the United States Open requires Nadal to change his approach. Here we examine how these surfaces place different demands on the player, and how Nadal is adjusting to the game.

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