The tennis world is abuzz with the news that the United States Tennis Association (USTA) will be using the same ball for both men and women during the upcoming 2023 US Open. This decision comes after numerous players expressed their dissatisfaction with the use of separate balls for each gender in the previous year’s tournament. Stacey Allaster, the tournament director, made this announcement during a news conference held at Arthur Ashe Stadium, where she highlighted the journey leading up to this significant change.
Allaster emphasized that the decision to unify the ball used in the US Open was a direct response to player feedback. She acknowledged that during the 2022 tournament, several players expressed their desire to switch to a different ball. Allaster went the extra mile by personally meeting with some of those players and encouraging them to voice their concerns to the appropriate channels, including WTA chairman and CEO Steve Simon and their player council representatives. The USTA’s stance was clear: if the WTA wanted to change the ball, it would be accommodated at no additional cost.
To ensure a smooth transition, the USTA set a condition for the WTA. They requested that the WTA inform them about the ball choice for the 2023 US Open by the end of the 2022 tournament. Allaster emphasized that this lead time was necessary for Wilson, the official ball provider, to produce the required volume. It is evident that the USTA is committed to addressing the players’ concerns promptly and effectively.
Before the decision to use the same ball for men and women, some players were vocal about the disparity in the balls used during the tournament. Notably, Iga Swiatek, the then- and current No. 1 ranked player, described the balls used at the US Open as “horrible” during the Western & Southern Open, held before the major event. She questioned the need for different balls for men and women, expressing her frustration at being unable to practice with the US Open balls in Europe. Swiatek’s sentiments were echoed by Paula Badosa, who believed that the different balls created “unfavorable conditions” for the players. These complaints made it abundantly clear that change was necessary.
The US Open was the only Grand Slam tournament that featured different balls in men’s and women’s matches, which sparked debate and drew attention to the issue of gender inequality in tennis. By using the same ball for both genders, the USTA has taken a significant step towards leveling the playing field and promoting fairness in the sport. This change not only addresses the players’ concerns but also sends a powerful message about inclusivity and equality within the tennis community.
While the decision to use the same ball in the 2023 US Open has been made, it is important to note that it is currently a trial period. Allaster stated that the WTA would evaluate the use of the Wilson extra duty ball after the tournament and decide whether to continue with it or revert to the regular felt ball. This approach puts the power firmly in the hands of the athletes, allowing their preferences and feedback to shape the future of ball selection for the US Open.
The USTA’s decision to use the same ball for both men and women in the 2023 US Open marks a significant milestone towards achieving equality and fairness in tennis. This change was driven by the voices of the players, who expressed their dissatisfaction with the previous system. By actively listening to the players’ concerns, the USTA has demonstrated their commitment to creating an inclusive and player-centric environment. The upcoming tournament promises to be an exciting moment in tennis history, as the unified ball brings the players together on the same level playing field. The 2023 US Open is poised to be a showcase of equality, skill, and sportsmanship, and the world eagerly awaits this groundbreaking event.
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