Bengaluru: Not only will India and the Netherlands face each other in the Davis Cup tie in Bengaluru this weekend, they will also have to contend with one of the toughest conditions in tennis – altitude.
India’s highest tennis venue
Bengaluru, situated at an altitude of about 900 meters (2,950 ft) above sea level, is the highest tennis venue in India. It is at a much higher altitude than Pune (550 meters). Although not as challenging as Quito (2,850 m) or La Paz (3,500 m), the altitude can have a big impact on the game.
Affects the speed and bounce of the ball
The wind at altitude directly affects the speed and bounce of the ball. Shots come out faster and the ball bounces more. The rally which appears to be under control at sea level may suddenly go long in Bengaluru. In a team competition like Davis Cup, where there is very little margin for error, this difference can prove decisive.
The strings of the racket will have to be changed
In these circumstances, the first thing players have to do is change the string tension of the racket. The ball travels faster at higher altitudes, so players usually set the strings tighter than usual. Loose strings increase the ‘trampoline effect’, which reduces control and increases the chance of mistakes.
Some shots are difficult, some are easy
The altitude makes some shots difficult to play, while others are relatively easy. In such circumstances, players who serve well and play strong returns from the baseline get the edge.
Altitude also affects the body
Apart from the ball, height also affects the body of the players. Due to less oxygen in the air, players may get tired sooner than expected, especially in long matches and long rallies. In such a situation, recovery between points and games also becomes more challenging.
Preparation and adaptation will be decisive
In such circumstances, only the team that reaches early and practices for several days takes advantage. These practice sessions are not just limited to shots, but also help the players in breathing, variations in speed and physical recovery.
Harmony, not talent, will decide the game.
Height does not determine who is a better tennis player, but players and teams who adapt quickly to conditions are in better shape. In Bengaluru, preparation, patience and accuracy will be as important as raw talent.
