rec.sport.tennis

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     FAQ for rec.sport.tennis (4/6) - Equipment
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     FAQ for rec.sport.tennis (3/6) - Player Information
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FAQ for rec.sport.tennis (4/6) - Equipment

Archive-name: sports/tennis-faq/equipment
 

                FAQ for rec.sport.tennis -- File 4 of 6

                      Table of Contents - File 4

   File    Item    Title
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
     4     4.1     Buying a Tennis Racquet -- Issues to Consider .
           4.2     Explanation of Racquet Grips  . . . . . . . . .
           4.3     Facts About Frames and Strings  . . . . . . . .
           4.4     Lead Tape and Its Application . . . . . . . . .
           4.5     Racquet Stringing Information . . . . . . . . .
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 4.1         Buying a Tennis Racquet -- Issues to Consider

(This section is a condensed version of an article originally posted by
Charles Lin, clin@eng.umd.edu - modified by csmith@cc.gatech.edu).

The following article discusses various criteria individuals may want
to examine when considering buying a new tennis racquet.  The following
topics are covered:

    + Price
    + Where to buy (mail order vs. local store)
    + Racquet size
    + Flexibility
    + Racquet material
    + Vibration dampening
    + Racquet strings and stringing
    + Grips
    + Head balance
    + Weight
 

   If you are looking for a racquet, the short advice is to hit with as
many racquets as you can, and pick the one you like best.  Like anything,
choosing racquets is a highly subjective decision, and you will get
pickier as you get better in tennis.   As a beginner, you may not have
as much information as you would like.   This article summarizes issues
you should think about when buying a racquet.

   Price
   -----

   Racquets range anywhere from 30 US dollars all the way up to 250 US
dollars and more.  They may roughly be divided into two classes - those
costing $90 US or less, and those costing more than $90 US.  Generally,
a reasonable racquet will cost at least $90 US (not on sale).  Most
racquets in this price range are made of graphite material or a graphite
composite.  A few inexpensive racquets may be composed of a metallic
material such as aluminum.  Usually the more expensive racquets (200 to
300 US dollars) will have fancier features, but a less expensive model
may well suit your needs.

    Mail order or not
    -----------------

    Should you mail order or not?   The main advantage of mail order is
cost savings and more selection variety.  Disadvantages: (1) you might get
ripped off; (2) no-return policies; (3) you can't play-test the racquet
before buying.  If you do choose to mail order, you may want to call the
Better Business Bureau (in the US) in the city where the company operates
from to see what kinds of complaints you get.

     Buying from sports stores allows you to take the racquet home right
away.  You may be able to come close to a mail-order price if you find the
racquet you want on sale.  You can sometimes get discontinued racquets at
great prices.  Also, you can usually return the racquet if not satisfied.

    Size of racquet
    ---------------

    The "racquet size" refers to the area bounded by the oval part of the
racquet frame (the racquet head).  Sizes may be roughly divided into four
categories:

    + Standard (approx 66 sq. inches -- the old wood racquets)
    + Midsize (80-90 sq. inches)
    + "Mid-overs" or "Mid-plus" (95-105 sq. inches)
    + Oversize (Approx 110 sq. inches)

    (1 square inch = 6.452 square cm)

    You can no longer find the standard size racquets which are the old
wooden racquets of the past.   Ever since Pam Shriver and others started
using larger-sized racquets, other pros and amateurs have made the switch.

     What does size mean to you?   An oversized racquet means you have
more area to hit the ball, and the racquet is more forgiving on off-center
shots.  Many baseliners use oversize racquets because they hit many strokes
and tend to utilize the extra area to help with topspin production.  These
racquets can lead to sloppy stroke production and can be too powerful for
some players.  This is usually not a big problem for most players.

    A midsize racquet is usually a little better for volleyers who play
against hard hitters because it provides a bit of control.  On the other
hand, the oversized racquet still provides more area to hit with, and
some serve and volleyers will use oversized racquets.

     The mid-over is a compromise -- more powerful than the midsize but
not as powerful as the oversized.  These racquets are becoming more popular
than midsize racquets.  Some companies have introduced super-oversized
models, which are a bit larger than oversize (typically about 115-120
sq. in.).  There are even a few models around 130 sq. inches, which are
probably much too big for reasonable play and should be avoided.  The
best way to determine the right size for you is to play-test with the
different sizes.  There are a great number and variety of mid-over and
oversize models to choose from.

    Widebodies
    ----------

    The "widebody revolution" started in the late 80's with models such
as the Wilson Profile.  Different companies have produced various racquets
that vary in their widebody construction (e.g., equally wide - Classic
Beam; wide on top - Prince; wide on bottom - Head).

     Generally,  Wider -> More powerful, stiffer, more expensive. Wide-
bodies are usually 18mm (very narrow) up to 30mm wide.  The general rule
of thumb is that the quicker and longer a stroke motion you have, the
narrower a racquet you should use (not a hard-and-fast rule, though).

     It should be noted that you are not going to find non-widebodies
around.  Almost every racquet is wide to some extent.  One problem with
widebodies occurs when people try to hit the ball edge on as in extreme
sliced shots or topspin shots.  You tend to hit the side of the racquet
a lot more.  You can compensate through a bit of practice.
 

    Extra Long Racquets
    -------------------

    Manufacturers of racquets have been looking for many different ways
to add power to racquets.   The aluminum racquet, the oversized racquet,
the graphite racquet, widebodies, and now extra long racquets.  A standard
racquet measures 27 inches, and the rules permit a racquet to be as long
as 32 inches.  (Note: The International Tennis Federation has proposed a
reduction in maximum allowable racquet length from 32 inches to 29 inches).
The new longer racquets are typically about 28 inches long.

    Given that most tennis racquet manufacturers now produce a longer
racquet, it's safe to say that this idea does work.  It seems to help add
a little power to the serve.   The only tricky part is making sure that
you can still hit the same kind of stroke with the longer racquets that
you can with a normal racquet.  It seems manufacturers have been paying
attention to this.

    Stiff or flexible
    -----------------

    Stiff racquets bend and torque a lot less than flexible racquets and
thus usually generate more power.  Stiff racquets will also produce a bit
more accuracy than a flexible racquet because they twist less on impact so
the response is more predictable.  Primarily though, flexibility translates
to comfort.  Stiff racquets tend to be more uncomfortable (i.e., produce
more shock to the arm) than flexible racquets.   The widebodies all tend
to be fairly stiff racquets though many of these racquets now have some
kind of dampening system (see Vibration Dampening below).

    Material
    --------

    Racquets are usually composed of graphite and metal.  There are no
racquets made of wood being made today.   Ceramic racquets, which used to
be made, are reported too brittle and are more likely to break than graphite
racquets.  Almost all metal racquets are junior sized racquets or lower
priced racquets.   Graphite racquets are sometimes combined with other
materials such as fiberglass to affect the flexibility.  Generally, if
you want to play "seriously", you choose graphite.  The graphite racquets
tend to have better vibration technology than metal.

   Vibration dampening
   -------------------

   Vibration dampening appears to be the current industry fad (e.g., Head -
Vibrasorb, Dunlop - ISIS, Prince - liquid crystal polymers).  The method
for dampening a racquet's vibration is provided either in the material of
the racquet, the material underneath the grip, or some method of "isolating"
the head of the racquet with the body.  Vibration dampening affects the
"feel" of a racquet by alleviating the "shock" of ball impact and can help
alleviate a common cause of tennis elbow (improper stroke production is
another cause).

   You can also buy vibration dampeners which can be sponge inserts,
plastic inserts, or you can even tie a rubber band to the racquet like
Agassi.   These dampeners probably work, but it's a matter a personal
judgment as to whether you need these devices.

    Strings
    -------

    Basically there are three kinds of strings you can get: (1) Nylon,
(2) Gut, and (3) Synthetic Gut.   Nylon is cheap and durable, but it is
not overly resilient and tends to lose tension before it snaps.  Gut is
the choice of many pros, but it is rather expensive and generally not
recommended unless you can afford to buy in bulk and have your own
stringing machine.  Gut strings are resilient, hold tension better, and
players like the feel better.   However, humidity affects the strings
and cause them to degrade.  Gut doesn't last as long as nylon.

     The compromise is synthetic strings.   Basically, gut is made by long
thin strands of cow or sheep gut, and it is twisted together in much the
same way twine or string is made.  Synthetic gut does the same thing with
nylon strings to achieve the same effect.   They cost more than nylon but
less than real gut.  They play and hold tension better than nylon.

    Strings come in various thicknesses, called "gauges." You have 15, 15L,
16, 16L, and 17.  Larger numbers mean thinner strings.  "L" means light and
can be thought of as half as size (so 15L can be considered 15 1/2).
Thick strings have less resilience and feel than thin strings but last
longer.

    So-called "topspin" strings are mostly gimmicky and should probably be
avoided.  These are rough surfaced strings designed to grab the ball better.
The feel or durability of the strings are not necessarily improved.

    Cost of strings range from about $10-$15 (US) for nylon to $12-$30 for
synthetic gut to $30-$50 for gut strings.  Strings can be purchased in
large reels for stringing at home for less.
 

    String snapping
    ---------------

    The main cause of strings breaking is excessive spin.  If you play
with lots of spin, you cause the strings to slide.  Under the tensions
these strings are under, this causes notches which you can actually see.
The notches eventually break.  The harder you hit, and the more spin you
hit, the more likely the strings will break sooner.

    One way to avoid this problem (or at least prolong string life) is to
use inserts called "String-a-lings" that prevent the strings from sliding
too much.   You can place this device at points where the string crosses.
Another possibility is to use thicker strings or to string at a higher
tension (next section).  Higher tensions means less string sliding but
can mean a greater likelihood that a string will snap (because of higher
tensile pressure).

    String tension
    --------------

    Note: 1 pound (lb) = 0.448 kg * 9.8 m/s^2 = 4.39 Newtons

    String tension is usually measured in pounds (in the US).  Recommended
string tensions have varied with the times but these days usually run in the
range of the mid 60's (pounds) for oversize and high 50's to low 60's for
mid-overs.

    How do you choose a tension?   If you're unsure, choose a tension that
is halfway between the manufacturer's ranges.  You can then adjust up or
down until you find the tension most suitable for you.  Exceeding the
limits of manufacturer's recommended string tensions might void the
racquet warranty (check with the racquet company if you have questions),
but most racquets can withstand a great range of tensions before damage
sets in.  Higher tensions will probably cause a little more damage than
lower tensions.

    Basically, higher tensions decrease the size of the sweetspot and
reduce the power (thus increasing control a bit).  The higher the tension,
the more boardlike the feel.  Some people like this.  Desired tension is
pretty much a matter of personal taste, and as you improve the level of
your game, you are apt to notice small fluctuations in string tensions.
Also note that the same string tension will have a different "feel" for
different racquets.

    Overwraps
    ---------

    Most racquet grips used to be made of leather and would become hard to
grip when the pores became clogged with dirt from your sweat.  A solution
to this problem is the use of an overgrip.  Overgrips are *temporary* grips,
and it is not recommended that you attempt to actually replace a racquet's
existing grip.

    Overgrips fit over the existing grip (and thus increase the grip size
a bit - see next section) and absorb the sweat better.  Some overgrips are
"tacky" or sticky.  Some are even essentially gauze with tape and some
sticky powder.   They should be replaced about every five times of playing
or sooner.   Otherwise, they get a little icky.   Some overgrips feel
rubbery, others cloth like, others a bit powdery.  They are about 5 US
dollars for a set of three.

     Nowadays there are synthetic grips which are much easier to grip than
leather, thus possibly removing the need for overgrips.

    Replacement Grips
    -----------------

    Replacement grips are meant to replace the original (leather or
synthetic) grip that your racquet came with.   Typically, this requires
someone with experience to do this for you.   Replacing a grip requires
more skill than using overwraps.   Replacement grips should cost less
than 20 US dollars.

    Grip size
    ---------

    There are, generally speaking, three basic grip sizes: 4 3/8, 4 1/2,
and 4 5/8 inches (1 inch = 2.54 cm).  Despite the 1/8 inch difference in
circumference, you can really notice the difference.  A general rule of
thumb is to choose the largest grip you feel comfortable with, but again
there are exceptions to every rule.  In some cases you might can obtain
grip sizes as diverse as 4 1/8 or 4 7/8 inches through a mail order company
or a local pro shop.

    Head balance
    ------------

    Take a racquet and find the length half way.  A racquet is typically
27 inches long so this is 13 1/2 inches.  If the racquet balances halfway,
then it is even balance.  If it tilts to the racquet head, it is head heavy.
If it tilts toward the handle, it is head light.    The balance of a racquet
can make two racquets of equal weight feel different.  The head heavy
racquet will feel heavier than the lighter one when you swing (think of
the difference in holding a hammer at either end).

    A head light racquet is better for serve and volleyers who need to
move the racquet quickly.   A head heavy racquet is a little better for
baseliners who want to place more mass behind the racquet.  Most racquets
are only marginally head heavy or head light.

    Some terminology.  Find the half way point (13 1/2 inches).  If the
balance point of your racquet is 3/8 inch closer to the racquet head than
the halfway point, then it is 3 points head heavy (1 point = 1/8 inch).
If the racquet balances 3/8 inch closer to the handle, then is is 3 point
head light.

    Weight
    ------

    As a rule, the trend in weight is toward lighter and lighter racquets,
particularly with the introduction of graphite.  Racquets right now weigh
about 11 and 1/2 ounces and decreasing with time.  Some racquets are even
less than 10 ounces.  The lighter a racquet, the easier it is to swing.
However, light racquets place less weight behind the shot, and hence you
have to swing faster to get a more powerful shot.   This has been the main
way (along with balance) to tame the power of widebodies.

    Conclusion
    ----------

    This discussion is not meant to provide you with the method for selecting
your racquet, rather to present the various issues you will confront as you
make your choice.  Good luck with the racquet hunt.
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 4.2                Explanation of Racquet Grips

(This material provided by Charles Lin, clin@eng.umd.edu, and modified by
csmith@cc.gatech.edu.)

   It is a bit difficult to explain the various racquet grips without a
little "show and tell," so to speak, but the following discussion may be
of help to beginners or players who are experimenting with racquet grips.
Some diagrams to help with the discussion:

   Here's two views of a racquet, with numbered labels shown which are
referred to in discussions below.

                     ---------
                    /   1     \                           _______
     View from     / 8       2 \                 grip    /       \
      bottom      /             \            1__________/ racquet \
      ------      |             |            |__________    face   |
     racquet      | 7        3  |            5          \         /
       butt       |             |                        \_______/
                  \             /
                   \ 6       4 /        "Face-On" view... racquet face is
                    \   5     /         in the same plane as imaginary
                     --------           line connecting sides 1 and 5.
 
 

    The grips are explained below by relating the knuckle of the index
finger to the relative racquet butt position the knuckle lines up over.
In other words, to obtain a certain grip, place the index knuckle on
the indicated butt edge and then slide your hand upward on the racquet
grip.  In case there's any confusion, here's a diagram of the (right)
index finger:
 

   thumb (located about here)
         --
            -
              \ ----------------------------------
                            |           |     --- \
               X           |||          |    |   | |   (first finger)
                            |           |     --- /
                ----------------------------------

     "X" marks the bottom of the knuckle.   Imagine that you are making a
fist, and staring at the knuckles.   X is the location where this bend
would occur on the first finger.

     Summary of locations (refer to racquet butt diagram for positions)
     --------------------
     1     Eastern backhand
    1-2    Continental
     2     Eastern forehand
    2-3    Semi-Western
     4     Western
     5     Exaggerated Western  (note this is also the Eastern
                                 backhand)

     The plain numbers like 1, 2, 3 refer to the flat portions of the grip
while the 2-3 refer to the corner.  Place the bottom knuckle of the first
 

FAQ for rec.sport.tennis (4/6) - Equipment

Archive-name: sports/tennis-faq/equipment
 

                FAQ for rec.sport.tennis -- File 4 of 6

                      Table of Contents - File 4

   File    Item    Title
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
     4     4.1     Buying a Tennis Racquet -- Issues to Consider .
           4.2     Explanation of Racquet Grips  . . . . . . . . .
           4.3     Facts About Frames and Strings  . . . . . . . .
           4.4     Lead Tape and Its Application . . . . . . . . .
           4.5     Racquet Stringing Information . . . . . . . . .
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 4.1         Buying a Tennis Racquet -- Issues to Consider

(This section is a condensed version of an article originally posted by
Charles Lin, clin@eng.umd.edu - modified by csmith@cc.gatech.edu).

The following article discusses various criteria individuals may want
to examine when considering buying a new tennis racquet.  The following
topics are covered:

    + Price
    + Where to buy (mail order vs. local store)
    + Racquet size
    + Flexibility
    + Racquet material
    + Vibration dampening
    + Racquet strings and stringing
    + Grips
    + Head balance
    + Weight
 

   If you are looking for a racquet, the short advice is to hit with as
many racquets as you can, and pick the one you like best.  Like anything,
choosing racquets is a highly subjective decision, and you will get
pickier as you get better in tennis.   As a beginner, you may not have
as much information as you would like.   This article summarizes issues
you should think about when buying a racquet.

   Price
   -----

   Racquets range anywhere from 30 US dollars all the way up to 250 US
dollars and more.  They may roughly be divided into two classes - those
costing $90 US or less, and those costing more than $90 US.  Generally,
a reasonable racquet will cost at least $90 US (not on sale).  Most
racquets in this price range are made of graphite material or a graphite
composite.  A few inexpensive racquets may be composed of a metallic
material such as aluminum.  Usually the more expensive racquets (200 to
300 US dollars) will have fancier features, but a less expensive model
may well suit your needs.

    Mail order or not
    -----------------

    Should you mail order or not?   The main advantage of mail order is
cost savings and more selection variety.  Disadvantages: (1) you might get
ripped off; (2) no-return policies; (3) you can't play-test the racquet
before buying.  If you do choose to mail order, you may want to call the
Better Business Bureau (in the US) in the city where the company operates
from to see what kinds of complaints you get.

     Buying from sports stores allows you to take the racquet home right
away.  You may be able to come close to a mail-order price if you find the
racquet you want on sale.  You can sometimes get discontinued racquets at
great prices.  Also, you can usually return the racquet if not satisfied.

    Size of racquet
    ---------------

    The "racquet size" refers to the area bounded by the oval part of the
racquet frame (the racquet head).  Sizes may be roughly divided into four
categories:

    + Standard (approx 66 sq. inches -- the old wood racquets)
    + Midsize (80-90 sq. inches)
    + "Mid-overs" or "Mid-plus" (95-105 sq. inches)
    + Oversize (Approx 110 sq. inches)

    (1 square inch = 6.452 square cm)

    You can no longer find the standard size racquets which are the old
wooden racquets of the past.   Ever since Pam Shriver and others started
using larger-sized racquets, other pros and amateurs have made the switch.

     What does size mean to you?   An oversized racquet means you have
more area to hit the ball, and the racquet is more forgiving on off-center
shots.  Many baseliners use oversize racquets because they hit many strokes
and tend to utilize the extra area to help with topspin production.  These
racquets can lead to sloppy stroke production and can be too powerful for
some players.  This is usually not a big problem for most players.

    A midsize racquet is usually a little better for volleyers who play
against hard hitters because it provides a bit of control.  On the other
hand, the oversized racquet still provides more area to hit with, and
some serve and volleyers will use oversized racquets.

     The mid-over is a compromise -- more powerful than the midsize but
not as powerful as the oversized.  These racquets are becoming more popular
than midsize racquets.  Some companies have introduced super-oversized
models, which are a bit larger than oversize (typically about 115-120
sq. in.).  There are even a few models around 130 sq. inches, which are
probably much too big for reasonable play and should be avoided.  The
best way to determine the right size for you is to play-test with the
different sizes.  There are a great number and variety of mid-over and
oversize models to choose from.

    Widebodies
    ----------

    The "widebody revolution" started in the late 80's with models such
as the Wilson Profile.  Different companies have produced various racquets
that vary in their widebody construction (e.g., equally wide - Classic
Beam; wide on top - Prince; wide on bottom - Head).

     Generally,  Wider -> More powerful, stiffer, more expensive. Wide-
bodies are usually 18mm (very narrow) up to 30mm wide.  The general rule
of thumb is that the quicker and longer a stroke motion you have, the
narrower a racquet you should use (not a hard-and-fast rule, though).

     It should be noted that you are not going to find non-widebodies
around.  Almost every racquet is wide to some extent.  One problem with
widebodies occurs when people try to hit the ball edge on as in extreme
sliced shots or topspin shots.  You tend to hit the side of the racquet
a lot more.  You can compensate through a bit of practice.
 

    Extra Long Racquets
    -------------------

    Manufacturers of racquets have been looking for many different ways
to add power to racquets.   The aluminum racquet, the oversized racquet,
the graphite racquet, widebodies, and now extra long racquets.  A standard
racquet measures 27 inches, and the rules permit a racquet to be as long
as 32 inches.  (Note: The International Tennis Federation has proposed a
reduction in maximum allowable racquet length from 32 inches to 29 inches).
The new longer racquets are typically about 28 inches long.

    Given that most tennis racquet manufacturers now produce a longer
racquet, it's safe to say that this idea does work.  It seems to help add
a little power to the serve.   The only tricky part is making sure that
you can still hit the same kind of stroke with the longer racquets that
you can with a normal racquet.  It seems manufacturers have been paying
attention to this.

    Stiff or flexible
    -----------------

    Stiff racquets bend and torque a lot less than flexible racquets and
thus usually generate more power.  Stiff racquets will also produce a bit
more accuracy than a flexible racquet because they twist less on impact so
the response is more predictable.  Primarily though, flexibility translates
to comfort.  Stiff racquets tend to be more uncomfortable (i.e., produce
more shock to the arm) than flexible racquets.   The widebodies all tend
to be fairly stiff racquets though many of these racquets now have some
kind of dampening system (see Vibration Dampening below).

    Material
    --------

    Racquets are usually composed of graphite and metal.  There are no
racquets made of wood being made today.   Ceramic racquets, which used to
be made, are reported too brittle and are more likely to break than graphite
racquets.  Almost all metal racquets are junior sized racquets or lower
priced racquets.   Graphite racquets are sometimes combined with other
materials such as fiberglass to affect the flexibility.  Generally, if
you want to play "seriously", you choose graphite.  The graphite racquets
tend to have better vibration technology than metal.

   Vibration dampening
   -------------------

   Vibration dampening appears to be the current industry fad (e.g., Head -
Vibrasorb, Dunlop - ISIS, Prince - liquid crystal polymers).  The method
for dampening a racquet's vibration is provided either in the material of
the racquet, the material underneath the grip, or some method of "isolating"
the head of the racquet with the body.  Vibration dampening affects the
"feel" of a racquet by alleviating the "shock" of ball impact and can help
alleviate a common cause of tennis elbow (improper stroke production is
another cause).

   You can also buy vibration dampeners which can be sponge inserts,
plastic inserts, or you can even tie a rubber band to the racquet like
Agassi.   These dampeners probably work, but it's a matter a personal
judgment as to whether you need these devices.

    Strings
    -------

    Basically there are three kinds of strings you can get: (1) Nylon,
(2) Gut, and (3) Synthetic Gut.   Nylon is cheap and durable, but it is
not overly resilient and tends to lose tension before it snaps.  Gut is
the choice of many pros, but it is rather expensive and generally not
recommended unless you can afford to buy in bulk and have your own
stringing machine.  Gut strings are resilient, hold tension better, and
players like the feel better.   However, humidity affects the strings
and cause them to degrade.  Gut doesn't last as long as nylon.

     The compromise is synthetic strings.   Basically, gut is made by long
thin strands of cow or sheep gut, and it is twisted together in much the
same way twine or string is made.  Synthetic gut does the same thing with
nylon strings to achieve the same effect.   They cost more than nylon but
less than real gut.  They play and hold tension better than nylon.

    Strings come in various thicknesses, called "gauges." You have 15, 15L,
16, 16L, and 17.  Larger numbers mean thinner strings.  "L" means light and
can be thought of as half as size (so 15L can be considered 15 1/2).
Thick strings have less resilience and feel than thin strings but last
longer.

    So-called "topspin" strings are mostly gimmicky and should probably be
avoided.  These are rough surfaced strings designed to grab the ball better.
The feel or durability of the strings are not necessarily improved.

    Cost of strings range from about $10-$15 (US) for nylon to $12-$30 for
synthetic gut to $30-$50 for gut strings.  Strings can be purchased in
large reels for stringing at home for less.
 

    String snapping
    ---------------

    The main cause of strings breaking is excessive spin.  If you play
with lots of spin, you cause the strings to slide.  Under the tensions
these strings are under, this causes notches which you can actually see.
The notches eventually break.  The harder you hit, and the more spin you
hit, the more likely the strings will break sooner.

    One way to avoid this problem (or at least prolong string life) is to
use inserts called "String-a-lings" that prevent the strings from sliding
too much.   You can place this device at points where the string crosses.
Another possibility is to use thicker strings or to string at a higher
tension (next section).  Higher tensions means less string sliding but
can mean a greater likelihood that a string will snap (because of higher
tensile pressure).

    String tension
    --------------

    Note: 1 pound (lb) = 0.448 kg * 9.8 m/s^2 = 4.39 Newtons

    String tension is usually measured in pounds (in the US).  Recommended
string tensions have varied with the times but these days usually run in the
range of the mid 60's (pounds) for oversize and high 50's to low 60's for
mid-overs.

    How do you choose a tension?   If you're unsure, choose a tension that
is halfway between the manufacturer's ranges.  You can then adjust up or
down until you find the tension most suitable for you.  Exceeding the
limits of manufacturer's recommended string tensions might void the
racquet warranty (check with the racquet company if you have questions),
but most racquets can withstand a great range of tensions before damage
sets in.  Higher tensions will probably cause a little more damage than
lower tensions.

    Basically, higher tensions decrease the size of the sweetspot and
reduce the power (thus increasing control a bit).  The higher the tension,
the more boardlike the feel.  Some people like this.  Desired tension is
pretty much a matter of personal taste, and as you improve the level of
your game, you are apt to notice small fluctuations in string tensions.
Also note that the same string tension will have a different "feel" for
different racquets.

    Overwraps
    ---------

    Most racquet grips used to be made of leather and would become hard to
grip when the pores became clogged with dirt from your sweat.  A solution
to this problem is the use of an overgrip.  Overgrips are *temporary* grips,
and it is not recommended that you attempt to actually replace a racquet's
existing grip.

    Overgrips fit over the existing grip (and thus increase the grip size
a bit - see next section) and absorb the sweat better.  Some overgrips are
"tacky" or sticky.  Some are even essentially gauze with tape and some
sticky powder.   They should be replaced about every five times of playing
or sooner.   Otherwise, they get a little icky.   Some overgrips feel
rubbery, others cloth like, others a bit powdery.  They are about 5 US
dollars for a set of three.

     Nowadays there are synthetic grips which are much easier to grip than
leather, thus possibly removing the need for overgrips.

    Replacement Grips
    -----------------

    Replacement grips are meant to replace the original (leather or
synthetic) grip that your racquet came with.   Typically, this requires
someone with experience to do this for you.   Replacing a grip requires
more skill than using overwraps.   Replacement grips should cost less
than 20 US dollars.

    Grip size
    ---------

    There are, generally speaking, three basic grip sizes: 4 3/8, 4 1/2,
and 4 5/8 inches (1 inch = 2.54 cm).  Despite the 1/8 inch difference in
circumference, you can really notice the difference.  A general rule of
thumb is to choose the largest grip you feel comfortable with, but again
there are exceptions to every rule.  In some cases you might can obtain
grip sizes as diverse as 4 1/8 or 4 7/8 inches through a mail order company
or a local pro shop.

    Head balance
    ------------

    Take a racquet and find the length half way.  A racquet is typically
27 inches long so this is 13 1/2 inches.  If the racquet balances halfway,
then it is even balance.  If it tilts to the racquet head, it is head heavy.
If it tilts toward the handle, it is head light.    The balance of a racquet
can make two racquets of equal weight feel different.  The head heavy
racquet will feel heavier than the lighter one when you swing (think of
the difference in holding a hammer at either end).

    A head light racquet is better for serve and volleyers who need to
move the racquet quickly.   A head heavy racquet is a little better for
baseliners who want to place more mass behind the racquet.  Most racquets
are only marginally head heavy or head light.

    Some terminology.  Find the half way point (13 1/2 inches).  If the
balance point of your racquet is 3/8 inch closer to the racquet head than
the halfway point, then it is 3 points head heavy (1 point = 1/8 inch).
If the racquet balances 3/8 inch closer to the handle, then is is 3 point
head light.

    Weight
    ------

    As a rule, the trend in weight is toward lighter and lighter racquets,
particularly with the introduction of graphite.  Racquets right now weigh
about 11 and 1/2 ounces and decreasing with time.  Some racquets are even
less than 10 ounces.  The lighter a racquet, the easier it is to swing.
However, light racquets place less weight behind the shot, and hence you
have to swing faster to get a more powerful shot.   This has been the main
way (along with balance) to tame the power of widebodies.

    Conclusion
    ----------

    This discussion is not meant to provide you with the method for selecting
your racquet, rather to present the various issues you will confront as you
make your choice.  Good luck with the racquet hunt.
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 4.2                Explanation of Racquet Grips

(This material provided by Charles Lin, clin@eng.umd.edu, and modified by
csmith@cc.gatech.edu.)

   It is a bit difficult to explain the various racquet grips without a
little "show and tell," so to speak, but the following discussion may be
of help to beginners or players who are experimenting with racquet grips.
Some diagrams to help with the discussion:

   Here's two views of a racquet, with numbered labels shown which are
referred to in discussions below.

                     ---------
                    /   1     \                           _______
     View from     / 8       2 \                 grip    /       \
      bottom      /             \            1__________/ racquet \
      ------      |             |            |__________    face   |
     racquet      | 7        3  |            5          \         /
       butt       |             |                        \_______/
                  \             /
                   \ 6       4 /        "Face-On" view... racquet face is
                    \   5     /         in the same plane as imaginary
                     --------           line connecting sides 1 and 5.
 
 

    The grips are explained below by relating the knuckle of the index
finger to the relative racquet butt position the knuckle lines up over.
In other words, to obtain a certain grip, place the index knuckle on
the indicated butt edge and then slide your hand upward on the racquet
grip.  In case there's any confusion, here's a diagram of the (right)
index finger:
 

   thumb (located about here)
         --
            -
              \ ----------------------------------
                            |           |     --- \
               X           |||          |    |   | |   (first finger)
                            |           |     --- /
                ----------------------------------

     "X" marks the bottom of the knuckle.   Imagine that you are making a
fist, and staring at the knuckles.   X is the location where this bend
would occur on the first finger.

     Summary of locations (refer to racquet butt diagram for positions)
     --------------------
     1     Eastern backhand
    1-2    Continental
     2     Eastern forehand
    2-3    Semi-Western
     4     Western
     5     Exaggerated Western  (note this is also the Eastern
                                 backhand)

     The plain numbers like 1, 2, 3 refer to the flat portions of the grip
while the 2-3 refer to the corner.  Place the bottom knuckle of the first
 

FAQ for rec.sport.tennis (6/6) -
Miscellaneous

Archive-name: sports/tennis-faq/miscellaneous
 

                FAQ for rec.sport.tennis -- File 6 of 6

                      Table of Contents - File 6

   File    Item    Title
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
     6      6.1    Tennis Elbow  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            6.2    USTA Self Rating System . . . . . . . . . . . .
            6.3    USTA Rules and Code On-Line . . . . . . . . . .
            6.4    Origin of Scoring System in Tennis  . . . . . .
            6.5    Tennis Tie-Break Rules  . . . . . . . . . . . .
            6.6    Dimensions of a Tennis Court  . . . . . . . . .
            6.7    Professional Tournament Seeding . . . . . . . .
            6.8    World Team Tennis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            6.9    Common Pro Tennis Acronyms  . . . . . . . . . .

            A.1    Acknowledgements  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 6.1                        Tennis Elbow

The following information, compiled by David Poyourow (poy@irvine.dg.com),
may be useful to readers suffering from tennis elbow.

Tips for alleviating tennis elbow:

 + Ultimately, you have to rest it for a long time for it to recede.

 + A doctor can prescribe anti-inflammatories like naprosin, although
   you might find ibuprofin works for you.  A doctor can also give a
   shot of cortisone, or even arthroscopic surgury for it, but that is
   treating the symptom, not the cause.

 + Stretch the tendon before you play by extending your elbow and then
   extending and flexing your wrist.

 + Ice your elbow down after you play.

 + Strengthen your grip to relieve the stress on your elbow with one of
   those blobs or springs you crush in your hand.

 + Relearn your strokes to remove 'wristy-ness'.  Use a locked wrist
   type stroke.

 + Try a shock absorber on the strings.

 + I have done all of the above and my elbow seldom bothers me; however,
   once you get it, you will always have a tendency to have it.

 + Those bands that people put on their forearms change the position of
   the tendon, which allows you to abuse a fresh part of the tendon;
   perhaps while doing this, the old irritated part will heal.
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 6.2                    USTA Self Rating System

Self-Rating Guidelines:

The National Tennis Rating Program provides a simple, initial self-placement
method of grouping individuals of similar ability levels for league play,
tournament, group lessons, social competition and club or community programs.

The rating categories are generalizations about skill levels. You may find
that you actually play above or below the category which best describes your
skill level, depending on your competitive ability. The category you choose
is not meant to be permanent, but may be adjusted as your skills change or as
your match play demonstrates the need for reclassification. Ultimately, your
rating is based upon your results in match play.
 

To place yourself:

   A.  Begin with 1.0. Read all the categories carefully and then decide
       which one best describes your present ability level. If your abilities
       range between two catagories, then choose the lower one.

   B.  Be certain that you qualify on all points of all preceding categories
       as well as those in the classification you choose.

   C.  When rating yourself assume you are playing against a player of the
       same sex and the same ability.

   D.  Your self-rating may be verified by a teaching professional, coach,
       league coordinator or other qualified expert.

   E.  The person in charge of your tennis program has the right to reclassify
       you based upon match results, if your self-placement is thought to be
       inappropriate
 

Rating Categories:
 

1.0    This player is just starting to play tennis.

1.5    This player has limited playing experience and is still working
       primarily on getting the ball into play.

2.0    This player needs on-court experience.  This player has obvious
       stroke weaknesses but is familiar with basic positions for singles
       and doubles play.

2.5    This player is  learning to judge where the ball is going although
       court coverage is weak.  This player can sustain a slow rally with
       other players of same ability.

3.0    This player is consistent when hitting medium pace shots, but is
       not comfortable with all strokes and lacks control when trying for
       a directional intent, depth, or power.

3.5    This player has achieved improved stroke dependability and direction
       on moderate pace shots, but still lacks depth and variety.  This
       player exhibits more aggressive net play, has improved court coverage,
       and is developing teamwork in doubles.

4.0    This player has dependable strokes, including directional intent,
       on both forehand and backhand sides on moderate shots, plus the
       ability to use lobs, overheads, approach shots and volleys with
       some success.  This player occasionally forces errors when serving
       and teamwork in doubles is evident.

4.5    This player has begun to master the use of power and spins and is
       beginning to handle pace, has sound footwork, can control depth of
       shots, and is beginning to vary tactica according to opponents.
       This player can hit first serves with power and accuracy and place
       the second serve and is able to rush the net successfully.

5.0    This player has good shot anticipation and frequently has an
       outstanding shot or attribute around which a game may be structured.
       This player can regularly hit winners or force errors off of short
       balls, can put away volleys, can successfully execute lobs, drop
       shots, half volleys and overhead smashes, and has good depth and
       spin on most second serves.

5.5    This player has developed power and/or consistency as a major weapon.
       This player can vary strategies and styles of play in a competitive
       situation and hits dependable shots in a stress situation.

6.0    These players will generally not need NRTP rankings.  Rankings or
to     past rankings will speak for themselves.  The 6.0 player typically
7.0    has had intensive training for national tournament competition at
       the junior level and collegiate levels and has obtained a sectional
       or national ranking.  The 6.5 player has a reasonable chance of
       succeeding at the 7.0 level and has extensive satellite tournament
       experience.  The 7.0 is a world class player who is committed to
       tournament competition on the international level and whose major
       source of income is tournament prize winnings.

       With this list you can rate yourself. Should you realize that your
abilities range between two categories, then the lower one should be used
to determine your playing level.

Have fun and keep enjoying this great sport.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 6.3                  USTA Rules and Code Online

For those who wish to obtain an online copy of the complete USTA Rules
and Code, this information is now available via the World Wide Web:
 
    <URL:http://www.tennisserver.com/rules.html>    (Rules)
    <URL:http://www.tennisserver.com/code.html>     (Code)

 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 6.4           Origin of the Scoring System in Tennis

The traditional scoring system in a tennis game is 15-30-40-deuce-ad-game.
The scoring system is said to derive from the usage of the four quarters
of a clock (15-30-45-60) used to score a game in the pre-modern era.  60
would signify game, while 45 was, in time, "shortened" to 40.

A common (but unproven) explanation for the term "love" to signify a
score of zero is that it originates from the French term "l'oeuf."
Another explanation is based on the idea that to do something for love
is to do something for nothing (zero).

The tie-break in tennis originated with Jimmy Van Alen in the late 1960s.
Van Alen wished to eliminate interminable deuce sets (sets where the score
reaches 5 games all and, under traditional rules, play continues until the
winner of the set acquires a two-game advantage).

After some experimentation at Newport, R.I., a "sudden death" tie-break
was introduced at the US Open in 1970.  The winner of the tie-break was
the first person to reach five points with an advantage of at least one.
The current version of the tie-break -- first to seven with an advantage
of two -- was implemented in 1975.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 6.5                     Tennis Tie-Break Rules
                           (Source: USTA)

If announced in advance of the match, a tie-break game operates when the
score reaches six games all in any set.

In singles, the player who first wins seven points wins the game and the
set provided he or she leads by a margin of two points. If the score reaches
six points all the game is extended until this margin has been achieved.
Numerical scoring is used throughout the tie-break. The player whose turn
it is to serve is the Server for the first point; his or her opponent is the
Server for the second and third points; and, thereafter, each player serves
alternately for two consecutive points until the winner of the game and set
has been decided.

In doubles, the player whose turn it is to serve is the Server for the
first point. Thereafter, each player serves in rotation for two points,
in the same order as determined previously in that set, until the winners
of the game and set have been decided.

Starting with the first point, each service is delivered alternately from
the right and left courts, beginning from the right court. The first Server
serves the first point from the right court; the second Server serves the
second and third points from the left and right courts respectively; the
next Server serves the fourth and fifth points from the left and right
courts, respectively; and so on.

Players change ends after every six points and at the conclusion of the
tie-break game. The player (or doubles pair) who served first in the
tie-break shall receive service in the first game of the following set.
(In other words, the tie-break counts as a service game for the player
who serves the first ball.)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 6.6                 Dimensions of a Tennis Court

The singles court is 78 feet (23.77 m) long and 27 feet (8.23 m) wide.
The doubles court is 36 feet (10.97 m) wide (thus the doubles alleys
are about 4-1/2 feet - 1.37 m - wide).

The service lines on either side of the net are at a distance of 21
feet (6.40 m) from the net. The center service line is halfway between
the singles (or doubles) sidelines.

The net is supported by two net posts (at least three feet - 0.91 m -
outside the doubles sideline - or 3 feet outside the singles sideline
for a singles-only court) to a height of 3-1/2 feet (1.07 m) and
supported at the center service line to a height of 3 feet by a white
strap.  Additionally, for singles matches, the net is supported by two
"singles sticks" (posts) about 3 feet outside the singles sidelines to
a height of 3-1/2 feet.

The ITF stipulates that for ITF competitions (the Grand Slams and Davis
and Federation Cups) the space behind the baseline should be at least
21 feet (6.40 m) and the space outside of the furthest sideline should
be at least 12 feet (3.66 m).

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 6.7                Professional Tournament Seeding

The following diagram shows the typical formula used to determine the
draws for 16-seed men's and women's tournaments (for meetings in the
round-of-16).  Sometimes there are some minor modifications employed;
e.g, the #3/4 seed might be placed in the part of a quarter opposite
the indicated position.

As indicated, more restrictions are placed on men's draws.  For instance,
in a men's draw, the only seeded player #1 and #2 can possibly meet in the
round of 16 is either #15 or #16; whereas, in a women's draw, #1 and #2
can meet any one among the #9 to #16 range.

In general, women's seeds are distributed such that seed #n and seed #(n+1)
are distributed in opposite halves of the draw, where n is an odd number.
 

        Seedings and draw information for 16-seed pro tournaments

    Women            Men

      1               1    --------+
                                   |--------+
 one of 9-16      15 or 16 --------+        |
                                            |--------+
 one of 9-16       9 or 10 --------+        |        |
                                   |--------+        |
 one of 5-8        7 or 8  --------+                 |
                                                     |--------+
   3 or 4          3 or 4  --------+                 |        |
                                   |--------+        |        |
 one of 9-16      13 or 14 --------+        |        |        |
                                            |--------+        |
 one of 9-16      11 or 12 --------+        |                 |
                                   |--------+                 |
 one of 5-8        5 or 6  --------+                          |
                                                              +-------->
 one of 5-8        5 or 6  --------+                          |
                                   |--------+                 |
 one of 9-16      11 or 12 --------+        |                 |
                                            |--------+        |
 one of 9-16      13 or 14 --------+        |        |        |
                                   |--------+        |        |
   3 or 4          3 or 4  --------+                 |        |
                                                     |--------+
 one of 5-8        7 or 8  --------+                 |
                                   |--------+        |
 one of 9-16      9 or 10  --------+        |        |
                                            |--------+
 one of 9-16      15 or 16 --------+        |
                                   |--------+
     2                2    --------+

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 6.8                       World Team Tennis

World Team Tennis is a concept, devised by Billie Jean King, which came to
fruition in the 1970's and has recently made somewhat of a comeback.  World
Team Tennis was at it's peak in the mid 1970's, with the likes of Evert,
Connors, and Borg among its ranks.  The concept gradually died for various
reasons in the late 70's but has been revised in a scaled-down form.

The basic Team Tennis concept is as follows: The Team Tennis franchise is
similar to US baseball and football, where teams based in various US cities
compete against one another.  Unlike baseball and football, team members get
paid based on their performance rather than a fixed amount.  Bonuses are also
awarded to playoff teams and to the award winners (Most Valuable Player,
Rookie of the Year, Coach of the Year).  In 1995, a rookie could earn up to
$57,500 while a returning player could earn up to $53,500.  Teams consist
of two male and two female players plus a coach.  Each team usually has one
local player of each gender who serves as an alternate at home matches.

There are two five-team divisions.  Teams play two teams in the other
division only once while playing home and away against the other seven
teams, over a 4-week period following Wimbledon. The division winners, two
wild card teams (teams having the best records among the remainder), and the
Championship weekend host team square off in single-elimination playoffs at
the end of this period.  The champion for the season is the team surviving the
single-elimination playoff tournament.

A Team Tennis match consists of five sets: one set each of men's and women's
singles, men's and women's doubles, and mixed doubles.  The order of match
play is doubles-singles-doubles-singles-doubles, with the coach of the host
team determining the exact order of sets (e.g., women's doubles first). Prior
to each set, a certain amount of time is allowed for player warmups. A change
of sides occurs every fourth game after a set starts, rather than every odd
game played.  The scoring is "no-ad," meaning that 40-40 is a "game point"
instead of deuce.  If the set score reaches 5-5, a 9-point tie-break is played
(first to 5 points with an advantage of only 1 point required) to determine
the winner of the set.  Match score is determined by total games won by a
team, not by how many sets are won.

At the close of the match, the team leading in games won must win the last
game played to win the match.  Otherwise, fifth-set play continues until this
happens or until each team is equal in number of games won.  In the latter
case, a 13-point super tie-break is then played to determine the match winner.
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 6.9                 Common Pro Tennis Acronyms

The following are some of the acronyms you may see in a discussion of pro
tennis and their meanings:

    ATP -   ATP Tour, the men's professional tennis organization.
            The ATP Tour includes tour events outside of the Grand
            Slam events, Grand Slam Cup, and Davis Cup.  Mark Miles
            is the current CEO of the ATP Tour.

    WTA -   COREL WTA TOUR, the women's professional tennis
            organization.  The COREL WTA TOUR includes Grand Slam
            events and the Fed Cup.  Ric Clarson is the current
            Chief Executive Officer of this body, succeeding
            Anne Person Worcester in early 1998.

    WTC   - Women's Tennis Council - A board comprised of executive
            types from the WTA (4), directors of women's tournaments
            (4), and the ITF (see below - 2), that carries a lot of
            weight in the organization and politics of women's tennis.
            There is no equivalent in the men's game (although there
            used to be).  As of 1995, the WTC was renamed as the
            WTA TOUR Council.

    ITF   - International Tennis Federation - the body that oversees
            the Grand Slams, Grand Slam Cup, Davis & Federation Cup,
            and the Olympics.
 

    IMG   - International Management Group - one of the large Sports
            Management agencies that manage the affairs of a large
            number of tennis players and run some of the pro tournament
            events.  Advantage International and ProServ are the other
            main Agencies with tennis playing clients, although there
            are also a number of smaller agencies.

    USPTA - United States Professional Tennis Association.
 
    USPTR - United States Professional Tennis Registry.
 
    USRSA - United States Racquet Stringers Association.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

===============================================================================

 -A1- The following individuals contributed to this FAQ or provided
      significant information used in compiling portions of the FAQ:

        Christopher Smith                Shun Cheung
        Natasha Austria                  Vijay Baliga
        Roberto Barros                   Clark Coleman
        Arijit Das                       Mike Horgan
        Srinivasamurthy Kasibhotla       Larry Larson
        Jimmy Lim                        Charles Lin
        Mei-Ling Liu                     David Poyourow
        Glenn Stein                      Dan Simoes
        Howard Zivotofsky                Albert Murdiono
        Alan Vinh

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                           DISCLAIMER

  This FAQ is intended solely for the private use of individuals and may be
  distributed on a non-profit basis.  The authors request that the FAQ be
  distributed in its entirety.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 

FAQ for rec.sport.tennis (3/6) - Player
Information

Archive-name: sports/tennis-faq/player-info
 

                   FAQ for rec.sport.tennis -- File 3 of 6
                             Player Information

   File    Item    Title
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
     3      3.1    Grand Slam Winners  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            3.2    Grand Slam Event Winners - Open Era . . . . . .
            3.3    Number of Grand Slam Singles Titles Won . . . .
            3.4    Players - Career Singles Titles . . . . . . . .
            3.5    Head-to-Head Records  . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            3.6    Player and Fan Club Information . . . . . . . .
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.1                    Grand Slam Winners

     The highest achievement in professional tennis is winning the Grand
     Slam, which means winning all four major titles, the Australian Open,
     the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open, in the same calendar
     year.  Therefore, those four tournaments are also called the Grand
     Slam events.

     Following are Grand Slam winners and the year(s) they won the Grand
     Slam:

         Budge         1938             Connolly      1953
         Laver         1962             Court         1970
           "           1969             Graf          1988 *

   * Graf won a "Golden Slam" -- The Grand Slam plus the 1988 Olympic
     Gold Medal.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.2             Grand Slam Event Winners in the Open Era
 

  Note: During the late seventies through 1985, the Australian Open was
        held in the month of December.  The Australian Open was held in
        January starting in 1987 and was not held in 1986.

Men
           (Jan.)                                                  (Dec.)
         Australian    French        Wimblebon     US Open       Australian
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998     Korda
1997     Sampras       Kuerten       Sampras       Rafter
1996     Becker        Kafelnikov    Krajicek      Sampras
1995     Agassi        Muster        Sampras       Sampras
1994     Sampras       Bruguera      Sampras       Agassi
1993     Courier       Bruguera      Sampras       Sampras
1992     Courier       Courier       Agassi        Edberg
1991     Becker        Courier       Stich         Edberg
1990     Lendl         Gomez         Edberg        Sampras
1989     Lendl         Chang         Becker        Becker
1988     Wilander      Wilander      Edberg        Wilander
1987     Edberg        Lendl         Cash          Lendl
1986                   Lendl         Becker        Lendl
1985                   Wilander      Becker        Lendl         Edberg
1984                   Lendl         McEnroe       McEnroe       Wilander
1983                   Noah          McEnroe       Connors       Wilander
1982                   Wilander      Connors       Connors       Kriek
1981                   Borg          McEnroe       McEnroe       Kriek
1980                   Borg          Borg          McEnroe       Teacher
1979                   Borg          Borg          McEnroe       Vilas
1978                   Borg          Borg          Connors       Vilas
1977     Gerulaitis    Vilas         Borg          Vilas         Tanner
1976     Edmondson     Panatta       Borg          Connors
1975     Newcombe      Borg          Ashe          Orantes
1974     Connors       Borg          Connors       Connors
1973     Newcombe      Nastase       Kodes         Newcombe
1972     Rosewall      Gimeno        Smith         Nastase
1971     Rosewall      Kodes         Newcombe      Smith
1970     Ashe          Kodes         Newcombe      Rosewall
1969     Laver         Laver         Laver         Laver / Smith **
1968     B Bowrey      Rosewall      Laver         Ashe / Ashe **
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Women
           (Jan.)                                                  (Dec.)
         Australian    French        Wimblebon     US Open       Australian
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998     Hingis
1997     Hingis        Majoli        Hingis        Hingis
1996     Seles         Graf          Graf          Graf
1995     Pierce        Graf          Graf          Graf
1994     Graf          Sanchez V.    Martinez      Sanchez V.
1993     Seles         Graf          Graf          Graf
1992     Seles         Seles         Graf          Seles
1991     Seles         Seles         Graf          Seles
1990     Graf          Seles         Navratilova   Sabatini
1989     Graf          Sanchez V.    Graf          Graf
1988     Graf          Graf          Graf          Graf
1987     Mandlikova    Graf          Navratilova   Navratilova
1986                   Evert         Navratilova   Navratilova
1985                   Evert         Navratilova   Mandlikova    Navratilova
1984                   Navratilova   Navratilova   Navratilova   Evert
1983                   Evert         Navratilova   Navratilova   Navratilova
1982                   Navratilova   Navratilova   Evert         Evert
1981                   Mandlikova    Evert         Austin        Navratilova
1980                   Evert         Goolagong     Evert         Mandlikova
1979                   Evert         Navratilova   Austin        B Jordan
1978                   Ruzici        Navratilova   Evert         C O'Neil
1977     Goolagong     Jausovec      Wade          Evert         Melville-Reid
1976     Goolagong     S Barker      Evert         Evert
1975     Goolagong     Evert         King          Evert
1974     Goolagong     Evert         Evert         King
1973     Court         Court         King          Court
1972     Wade          King          King          King
1971     Court         Goolagong     Goolagong     King
1970     Court         Court         Court         Court
1969     Court         Court         A Jones       Court / Court **
1968     King          Richey        King          Wade / King **
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

  **  US Open had Amateur and Pro tournaments in 1968 and 1969.
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.3   Number of Grand Slam Singles Titles Won (Players playing in Open Era)

    1. Emerson         12 *        1. Court           24
    2. Laver           11          2. Graf            21
       Borg            11          3. Navratilova     18
    4. Sampras         10             Evert           18
    5. Rosewall         8          5. King            12
       Connors          8          6. Seles            9
       Lendl            8          7. Goolagong        7
    8. Newcombe         7          8. Mandlikova       4
       McEnroe          7             Hingis           4
       Wilander         7         10. Sanchez Vicario  3
                                      Wade             3

    * Didn't win any GS titles in the Open Era.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.4      Players with Highest Number of Career Singles Titles (Open Era)

    1. Martina Navratilova    167       1. Jimmy Connors         109
    2. Chris Evert            157       2. Ivan Lendl             94
    3. Steffi Graf            103       3. John McEnroe           77
    4. Evonne Goolagong        88       4. Bjorn Borg             62
    5. Margaret Court          79          Guillermo Vilas        62
    6. Billie Jean King        67       6. Ilie Nastase           57
    7. Virginia Wade           55       7. Pete Sampras           52
    8. Monica Seles            41       8. Boris Becker           49
    9. Helga Masthoff          37       9. Rod Laver              47
   10. Olga Morozova           31      10. Thomas Muster          44
       Conchita Martinez       31
 
                                           Andre Agassi           36

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.5            Head-to-head win-loss records of selected top players

  The head-to-head tables for current players is no longer maintained.
  A more selective record of top players' head-to-heads will be posted
  in the future.

  Other Notable Match-Ups:
 
  Navratilova-Evert    43-37        Lendl-Connors        23-13
  Navratilova-Shriver  37-3         Lendl-McEnroe        20-15
  Navratilova-Graf      9-9         Borg-McEnroe          7-7
  Navratilova-Sabatini 15-6         Lendl-Edberg         13-14
  Seles-Navratilova    10-7         Lendl-Becker         11-10
  Martinez-Navratilova  4-1         Becker-Edberg        25-10
  Graf-Sabatini        29-11
  Seles-Sabatini       12-3
 

  Head-to-head records include regular tournaments, Davis Cup, the World
  Team Cup, etc., but not exhibitions and the Grand Slam Cup.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.6                Player and Fan Club Information

Most players can be written to in care of the agencies that represent them.
Addresses of the major agencies are provided immendiately below.  For many
players in the subsequent list, the agency representing the player is shown.
 
In most cases, the web sites listed in this section are unofficial player
information sites.  They are listed as a convenience for those who may
wish to find news, statistics, and/or photos of a particular player.

---------------------------------------------------------
Major Agencies:  International Management Group   (IMG)
                 One Erieview Plaza
                 Suite 1300
                 Cleveland, OH 44114, USA
                 Tel. 216-522-1200
 
                 Advantage International   (Advantage)
                 1751 Pinnacle Drive, Suite 1500
                 McLean, VA 22102, USA
                 Tel. 703-905-3300
 
                 ProServ
                 1101 Wilson Blvd.
                 Suite 1300
                 Tel. Arlington, VA 22209, USA
 
                 AMI Promanagement (AMI)
                 370 Felter Ave.
                 Hewlett, NY 11557, USA
                 Tel. 516-569-8922
---------------------------------------------------------
 
 
Players:

ANDRE AGASSI - IMG

   http://www.superstars.com/andreagassi/index.html
   http://www.ids.net/~mattg/agassi/agassi.html
 

KARIM ALAMI - Advantage

SABINE APPELMANS - Advantage

   http://www.ping.be/~ping0200/sabine.html
   http://www.xs4all.be/~kghysens
 

YAYUK BASUKI

   http://www.perspektif.net/yayuk
   http://www.cam.org/~etoombs/yayuk.html
 

BORIS BECKER

   http://freeweb.aspide.it/free/borisbecker
   http://www.ids.net/~japolin/boris.html
 

ALBERTO BERASATEGUI - Proserv
JONAS BJORKMAN - Advantage
ARNAUD BOETSCH - IMG
SERGI BRUGUERA - IMG

JENNIFER CAPRIATI

   http://www.mc.vanderbilt.edu/medschool/students/gstein/Capriati
 

MICHAEL CHANG - Advantage

   http://www.mchang.com (Official)
   http://alcor.concordia.ca/~ct_chan/mchang.html
   http://www.geocities.com/Tokyo/8319/mc.html
 

AMANDA COETZER - ProServ

   http://web.idirect.com/~coetzer
   http://www.wu-wien.ac.at/usr/h89/h8924465
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/4504
 

ALEX CORRETJA

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Bleachers/8686/alex_home.html
 

ALBERT COSTA - Advantage

JIM COURIER - IMG

   http://members.aol.com/ARegas/index.htm
 

KIMIKO DATE

   http://www.twics.com/~finlandh/date/kimiko.htm
   http://www.goldwin.co.jp/atlanta/date/index.html
   http://tsk-www.ss.titech.ac.jp/~shino/Kimiko/kimikoHP.html
 

LINDSAY DAVENPORT - IMG

   http://www.angelfire.com/ca/lindsaydavenport/index.html
 

RUXANDRA DRAGOMIR - AMI
STEFAN EDBERG - ProServ
THOMAS ENQVIST - IMG

   http://www.mygale.org/10/enqvist/index.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Field/4509
 

MARY JOE FERNANDEZ - IMG

   http://www.stack.urc.tue.nl/~wil/mary-joe.html
 

WAYNE FERREIRA - IMG

   http://homepage.esoterica.pt/~edias/wferreira
 

AMY FRAZIER - Advantage

   http://www.mc.vanderbilt.edu/medschool/students/gstein/Frazier
 

ANDREA GAUDENZI - AMI

INES GORROCHATEGUI

   http://www.epix.net/~bknizer/ines.html
 

STEFFI GRAF

   Steffi Graf International Supporters' Club
   --
   Jackie Tanner, 12108 Stoney Spur, San Antonio, TX  78247-3439, USA
       (e-mail: 73753.2571@CompuServe.COM)
   Chris Skelton, 308-2077 Prospect St, Burlington, Ontario L7R 1Z4, Canada
       (e-mail: cskelton@hookup.net)

   http://www.hookup.net/~cskelton
   http://www.octonet.com/~jo
   http://www.informatik.uni-tuebingen.de/internet/sport/tennis/graf.html
 

PAUL HAARHUIS - Advantage

TIM HENMAN - IMG

   http://www.advantage-tennis.com/henman/memdet.htm
 

MARTINA HINGIS - IMG

   http://www.hingis.ch
   http://www.stack.urc.tue.nl/~geertt/martina.html
   http://www2.active.ch/~markus/martina.html
   http://falcon.cc.ukans.edu/~ransari/martina.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Paris/Metro/5190/index2.html
 

RIKA HIRAKI

   http://www2b.meshnet.or.jp/~deuceit
 

ANKE HUBER

   http://www.pncl.co.uk/~a.huber/index.html
   http://www.calvin.edu/~tslage78
   http://student.uq.edu.au/~s335129/huber/huber.html
 

GORAN IVANISEVIC

   http://www.waterw.com/~sbhakta/goran.htm
 

LUKE & MURPHY JENSEN - ProServ
YEVGENY KAFELNIKOV - IMG

JANA KANDARR - IMG

   http://www.tref.nl/1378/sport/jana1.htm
 

PETR KORDA - ProServ

   http://www.eccentrica.com/user/petro/korda.html
 

ANNA KOURNIKOVA - IMG

   http://www.healey.com.au/~bgrosman/anna
 

RICHARD KRAJICEK - Advantage
 

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Sideline/2958
 

GUSTAVO KUERTEN

   http://www.virtuacomm.com/gugakuerten
 

FLORENCIA LABAT

   http://members.tripod.com/~Chris_G/index.html
 

MAGNUS LARSSON

   http://members.aol.com/cowiedd/larsson.html
 

MIRJANA LUCIC

   http://www.lucic.com
   http://209.75.40.56
 

IVA MAJOLI - IMG

   http://srcm1.zems.fer.hr/~majoli
 

MAGDALENA MALEEVA - Advantage

   http://www2.minn.net/gmoney
   http://www.angelfire.com/ga/magmal/index.html
 

TODD MARTIN - Advantage

CONCHITA MARTINEZ - Advantage

   http://ogyalla.konkoly.hu/staff/zsoldos/Conchita/home.html
 

LORI MCNEIL - IMG
 

RACHEL MCQUILLAN

   http://home.t-online.de/home/Frank.Freitag/index.html
 

CARLOS MOYA

   http://www.laredcafe.com/jasm/moya.html
 

THOMAS MUSTER - AMI

   http://www.geocities.com/Paris/9644/muster.html
   http://www3.sympatico.ca/laflamme3/Muster.htm
 

MARTINA NAVRATILOVA - IMG

JANA NOVOTNA - Advantage

   http://www.waterw.com/~sbhakta/novotna.htm
 

LEANDER PAES

   http://www.its.uci.edu/~jaykay/leander.html
 

BARBARA PAULUS - IMG

MARK PHILIPPOUSSIS - Advantage

   http://www.primenet.com/~zed/mp/mp.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/9519/MP.html
   http://www.geocities.com/Paris/LeftBank/3279/MARK.HTML
 

MARY PIERCE - IMG :

   http://www.alphalink.com.au/~benatar/pierce.htm
 

DAVID PRINOSIL

   http://www.geocities.com/colosseum/sideline/2158
 

PATRICK RAFTER - IMG:

   http://www.ntplx.net/~radagast/rafter
 

LISA RAYMOND - Advantage

MARCELO RIOS - IMG :

   http://www.entelchile.net/mrios
   http://www.marcelorios.cl
   http://cec.uchile.cl/~irivera/chino.html
   http://www.cmet.net/mrios.htm
 

MARC ROSSET - IMG

CHANDA RUBIN - Advantage :

   http://www.satchmo.com/nolavl/chanda.html
 

GREG RUSEDSKI

   http://www.csv.warwick.ac.uk/~mauds/greg.html
 

GABRIELA SABATINI - ProServ:

   http://www.satlink.com/sabatini
   http://www.louisville.edu/~jsjuno01/gaby.html
 

PETE SAMPRAS - IMG:

   http://www.sportsline.com/u/sampras (Official)
   http://www.australia.net.au/~gumby/index.htm
 

ARANTXA SANCHEZ VICARIO - IMG

   http://members.tripod.com/~CMSTRONG/index.html
 

PATTY SCHNYDER

   http://www.sportpromotion.ch/pattyonline
 

MONICA SELES - IMG:

   http://www.primenet.com/~zed/seles/seles.html
   http://users.aol.com/Rostco/monica/monica.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/7491/index.html
 

ANNE-GAELLE SIDOT

   http://depinfo.u-bourgogne.fr:80/~panne/agsidot
 

VINCE SPADEA - IMG

BRETT STEVEN

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Sideline/9274/steven.htm
 

JASON STOLTENBERG - Advantage
KATARINA STUDENIKOVA - AMI

AI SUGIYAMA :

   http://www.opel.co.jp/AI/Aihome.html
   http://www.goldwin.co.jp/atlanta/sugiyama/index.html
 

TAMARINE TANASUGARN

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Loge/8390
 

GUILLERMO VILAS

   http://www.overnet.com.ar/Users/vilas.html
 

MALIVAI WASHINGTON - ProServ

   http://maltennis.com/Found.html
 

DAVID WHEATON - IMG
JUDITH WIESNER - Advantage
VENUS WILLIAMS

   http://surf.to/venuswilliams
 

TOOD WOODBRIDGE

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/7298
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 

FAQ for rec.sport.tennis (3/6) - Player
Information

Archive-name: sports/tennis-faq/player-info
 

                   FAQ for rec.sport.tennis -- File 3 of 6
                             Player Information

   File    Item    Title
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
     3      3.1    Grand Slam Winners  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            3.2    Grand Slam Event Winners - Open Era . . . . . .
            3.3    Number of Grand Slam Singles Titles Won . . . .
            3.4    Players - Career Singles Titles . . . . . . . .
            3.5    Head-to-Head Records  . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            3.6    Player and Fan Club Information . . . . . . . .
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.1                    Grand Slam Winners

     The highest achievement in professional tennis is winning the Grand
     Slam, which means winning all four major titles, the Australian Open,
     the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open, in the same calendar
     year.  Therefore, those four tournaments are also called the Grand
     Slam events.

     Following are Grand Slam winners and the year(s) they won the Grand
     Slam:

         Budge         1938             Connolly      1953
         Laver         1962             Court         1970
           "           1969             Graf          1988 *

   * Graf won a "Golden Slam" -- The Grand Slam plus the 1988 Olympic
     Gold Medal.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.2             Grand Slam Event Winners in the Open Era
 

  Note: During the late seventies through 1985, the Australian Open was
        held in the month of December.  The Australian Open was held in
        January starting in 1987 and was not held in 1986.

Men
           (Jan.)                                                  (Dec.)
         Australian    French        Wimblebon     US Open       Australian
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998     Korda
1997     Sampras       Kuerten       Sampras       Rafter
1996     Becker        Kafelnikov    Krajicek      Sampras
1995     Agassi        Muster        Sampras       Sampras
1994     Sampras       Bruguera      Sampras       Agassi
1993     Courier       Bruguera      Sampras       Sampras
1992     Courier       Courier       Agassi        Edberg
1991     Becker        Courier       Stich         Edberg
1990     Lendl         Gomez         Edberg        Sampras
1989     Lendl         Chang         Becker        Becker
1988     Wilander      Wilander      Edberg        Wilander
1987     Edberg        Lendl         Cash          Lendl
1986                   Lendl         Becker        Lendl
1985                   Wilander      Becker        Lendl         Edberg
1984                   Lendl         McEnroe       McEnroe       Wilander
1983                   Noah          McEnroe       Connors       Wilander
1982                   Wilander      Connors       Connors       Kriek
1981                   Borg          McEnroe       McEnroe       Kriek
1980                   Borg          Borg          McEnroe       Teacher
1979                   Borg          Borg          McEnroe       Vilas
1978                   Borg          Borg          Connors       Vilas
1977     Gerulaitis    Vilas         Borg          Vilas         Tanner
1976     Edmondson     Panatta       Borg          Connors
1975     Newcombe      Borg          Ashe          Orantes
1974     Connors       Borg          Connors       Connors
1973     Newcombe      Nastase       Kodes         Newcombe
1972     Rosewall      Gimeno        Smith         Nastase
1971     Rosewall      Kodes         Newcombe      Smith
1970     Ashe          Kodes         Newcombe      Rosewall
1969     Laver         Laver         Laver         Laver / Smith **
1968     B Bowrey      Rosewall      Laver         Ashe / Ashe **
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Women
           (Jan.)                                                  (Dec.)
         Australian    French        Wimblebon     US Open       Australian
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998     Hingis
1997     Hingis        Majoli        Hingis        Hingis
1996     Seles         Graf          Graf          Graf
1995     Pierce        Graf          Graf          Graf
1994     Graf          Sanchez V.    Martinez      Sanchez V.
1993     Seles         Graf          Graf          Graf
1992     Seles         Seles         Graf          Seles
1991     Seles         Seles         Graf          Seles
1990     Graf          Seles         Navratilova   Sabatini
1989     Graf          Sanchez V.    Graf          Graf
1988     Graf          Graf          Graf          Graf
1987     Mandlikova    Graf          Navratilova   Navratilova
1986                   Evert         Navratilova   Navratilova
1985                   Evert         Navratilova   Mandlikova    Navratilova
1984                   Navratilova   Navratilova   Navratilova   Evert
1983                   Evert         Navratilova   Navratilova   Navratilova
1982                   Navratilova   Navratilova   Evert         Evert
1981                   Mandlikova    Evert         Austin        Navratilova
1980                   Evert         Goolagong     Evert         Mandlikova
1979                   Evert         Navratilova   Austin        B Jordan
1978                   Ruzici        Navratilova   Evert         C O'Neil
1977     Goolagong     Jausovec      Wade          Evert         Melville-Reid
1976     Goolagong     S Barker      Evert         Evert
1975     Goolagong     Evert         King          Evert
1974     Goolagong     Evert         Evert         King
1973     Court         Court         King          Court
1972     Wade          King          King          King
1971     Court         Goolagong     Goolagong     King
1970     Court         Court         Court         Court
1969     Court         Court         A Jones       Court / Court **
1968     King          Richey        King          Wade / King **
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

  **  US Open had Amateur and Pro tournaments in 1968 and 1969.
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.3   Number of Grand Slam Singles Titles Won (Players playing in Open Era)

    1. Emerson         12 *        1. Court           24
    2. Laver           11          2. Graf            21
       Borg            11          3. Navratilova     18
    4. Sampras         10             Evert           18
    5. Rosewall         8          5. King            12
       Connors          8          6. Seles            9
       Lendl            8          7. Goolagong        7
    8. Newcombe         7          8. Mandlikova       4
       McEnroe          7             Hingis           4
       Wilander         7         10. Sanchez Vicario  3
                                      Wade             3

    * Didn't win any GS titles in the Open Era.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.4      Players with Highest Number of Career Singles Titles (Open Era)

    1. Martina Navratilova    167       1. Jimmy Connors         109
    2. Chris Evert            157       2. Ivan Lendl             94
    3. Steffi Graf            103       3. John McEnroe           77
    4. Evonne Goolagong        88       4. Bjorn Borg             62
    5. Margaret Court          79          Guillermo Vilas        62
    6. Billie Jean King        67       6. Ilie Nastase           57
    7. Virginia Wade           55       7. Pete Sampras           52
    8. Monica Seles            41       8. Boris Becker           49
    9. Helga Masthoff          37       9. Rod Laver              47
   10. Olga Morozova           31      10. Thomas Muster          44
       Conchita Martinez       31
 
                                           Andre Agassi           36

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.5            Head-to-head win-loss records of selected top players

  The head-to-head tables for current players is no longer maintained.
  A more selective record of top players' head-to-heads will be posted
  in the future.

  Other Notable Match-Ups:
 
  Navratilova-Evert    43-37        Lendl-Connors        23-13
  Navratilova-Shriver  37-3         Lendl-McEnroe        20-15
  Navratilova-Graf      9-9         Borg-McEnroe          7-7
  Navratilova-Sabatini 15-6         Lendl-Edberg         13-14
  Seles-Navratilova    10-7         Lendl-Becker         11-10
  Martinez-Navratilova  4-1         Becker-Edberg        25-10
  Graf-Sabatini        29-11
  Seles-Sabatini       12-3
 

  Head-to-head records include regular tournaments, Davis Cup, the World
  Team Cup, etc., but not exhibitions and the Grand Slam Cup.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.6                Player and Fan Club Information

Most players can be written to in care of the agencies that represent them.
Addresses of the major agencies are provided immendiately below.  For many
players in the subsequent list, the agency representing the player is shown.
 
In most cases, the web sites listed in this section are unofficial player
information sites.  They are listed as a convenience for those who may
wish to find news, statistics, and/or photos of a particular player.

---------------------------------------------------------
Major Agencies:  International Management Group   (IMG)
                 One Erieview Plaza
                 Suite 1300
                 Cleveland, OH 44114, USA
                 Tel. 216-522-1200
 
                 Advantage International   (Advantage)
                 1751 Pinnacle Drive, Suite 1500
                 McLean, VA 22102, USA
                 Tel. 703-905-3300
 
                 ProServ
                 1101 Wilson Blvd.
                 Suite 1300
                 Tel. Arlington, VA 22209, USA
 
                 AMI Promanagement (AMI)
                 370 Felter Ave.
                 Hewlett, NY 11557, USA
                 Tel. 516-569-8922
---------------------------------------------------------
 
 
Players:

ANDRE AGASSI - IMG

   http://www.superstars.com/andreagassi/index.html
   http://www.ids.net/~mattg/agassi/agassi.html
 

KARIM ALAMI - Advantage

SABINE APPELMANS - Advantage

   http://www.ping.be/~ping0200/sabine.html
   http://www.xs4all.be/~kghysens
 

YAYUK BASUKI

   http://www.perspektif.net/yayuk
   http://www.cam.org/~etoombs/yayuk.html
 

BORIS BECKER

   http://freeweb.aspide.it/free/borisbecker
   http://www.ids.net/~japolin/boris.html
 

ALBERTO BERASATEGUI - Proserv
JONAS BJORKMAN - Advantage
ARNAUD BOETSCH - IMG
SERGI BRUGUERA - IMG

JENNIFER CAPRIATI

   http://www.mc.vanderbilt.edu/medschool/students/gstein/Capriati
 

MICHAEL CHANG - Advantage

   http://www.mchang.com (Official)
   http://alcor.concordia.ca/~ct_chan/mchang.html
   http://www.geocities.com/Tokyo/8319/mc.html
 

AMANDA COETZER - ProServ

   http://web.idirect.com/~coetzer
   http://www.wu-wien.ac.at/usr/h89/h8924465
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/4504
 

ALEX CORRETJA

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Bleachers/8686/alex_home.html
 

ALBERT COSTA - Advantage

JIM COURIER - IMG

   http://members.aol.com/ARegas/index.htm
 

KIMIKO DATE

   http://www.twics.com/~finlandh/date/kimiko.htm
   http://www.goldwin.co.jp/atlanta/date/index.html
   http://tsk-www.ss.titech.ac.jp/~shino/Kimiko/kimikoHP.html
 

LINDSAY DAVENPORT - IMG

   http://www.angelfire.com/ca/lindsaydavenport/index.html
 

RUXANDRA DRAGOMIR - AMI
STEFAN EDBERG - ProServ
THOMAS ENQVIST - IMG

   http://www.mygale.org/10/enqvist/index.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Field/4509
 

MARY JOE FERNANDEZ - IMG

   http://www.stack.urc.tue.nl/~wil/mary-joe.html
 

WAYNE FERREIRA - IMG

   http://homepage.esoterica.pt/~edias/wferreira
 

AMY FRAZIER - Advantage

   http://www.mc.vanderbilt.edu/medschool/students/gstein/Frazier
 

ANDREA GAUDENZI - AMI

INES GORROCHATEGUI

   http://www.epix.net/~bknizer/ines.html
 

STEFFI GRAF

   Steffi Graf International Supporters' Club
   --
   Jackie Tanner, 12108 Stoney Spur, San Antonio, TX  78247-3439, USA
       (e-mail: 73753.2571@CompuServe.COM)
   Chris Skelton, 308-2077 Prospect St, Burlington, Ontario L7R 1Z4, Canada
       (e-mail: cskelton@hookup.net)

   http://www.hookup.net/~cskelton
   http://www.octonet.com/~jo
   http://www.informatik.uni-tuebingen.de/internet/sport/tennis/graf.html
 

PAUL HAARHUIS - Advantage

TIM HENMAN - IMG

   http://www.advantage-tennis.com/henman/memdet.htm
 

MARTINA HINGIS - IMG

   http://www.hingis.ch
   http://www.stack.urc.tue.nl/~geertt/martina.html
   http://www2.active.ch/~markus/martina.html
   http://falcon.cc.ukans.edu/~ransari/martina.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Paris/Metro/5190/index2.html
 

RIKA HIRAKI

   http://www2b.meshnet.or.jp/~deuceit
 

ANKE HUBER

   http://www.pncl.co.uk/~a.huber/index.html
   http://www.calvin.edu/~tslage78
   http://student.uq.edu.au/~s335129/huber/huber.html
 

GORAN IVANISEVIC

   http://www.waterw.com/~sbhakta/goran.htm
 

LUKE & MURPHY JENSEN - ProServ
YEVGENY KAFELNIKOV - IMG

JANA KANDARR - IMG

   http://www.tref.nl/1378/sport/jana1.htm
 

PETR KORDA - ProServ

   http://www.eccentrica.com/user/petro/korda.html
 

ANNA KOURNIKOVA - IMG

   http://www.healey.com.au/~bgrosman/anna
 

RICHARD KRAJICEK - Advantage
 

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Sideline/2958
 

GUSTAVO KUERTEN

   http://www.virtuacomm.com/gugakuerten
 

FLORENCIA LABAT

   http://members.tripod.com/~Chris_G/index.html
 

MAGNUS LARSSON

   http://members.aol.com/cowiedd/larsson.html
 

MIRJANA LUCIC

   http://www.lucic.com
   http://209.75.40.56
 

IVA MAJOLI - IMG

   http://srcm1.zems.fer.hr/~majoli
 

MAGDALENA MALEEVA - Advantage

   http://www2.minn.net/gmoney
   http://www.angelfire.com/ga/magmal/index.html
 

TODD MARTIN - Advantage

CONCHITA MARTINEZ - Advantage

   http://ogyalla.konkoly.hu/staff/zsoldos/Conchita/home.html
 

LORI MCNEIL - IMG
 

RACHEL MCQUILLAN

   http://home.t-online.de/home/Frank.Freitag/index.html
 

CARLOS MOYA

   http://www.laredcafe.com/jasm/moya.html
 

THOMAS MUSTER - AMI

   http://www.geocities.com/Paris/9644/muster.html
   http://www3.sympatico.ca/laflamme3/Muster.htm
 

MARTINA NAVRATILOVA - IMG

JANA NOVOTNA - Advantage

   http://www.waterw.com/~sbhakta/novotna.htm
 

LEANDER PAES

   http://www.its.uci.edu/~jaykay/leander.html
 

BARBARA PAULUS - IMG

MARK PHILIPPOUSSIS - Advantage

   http://www.primenet.com/~zed/mp/mp.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/9519/MP.html
   http://www.geocities.com/Paris/LeftBank/3279/MARK.HTML
 

MARY PIERCE - IMG :

   http://www.alphalink.com.au/~benatar/pierce.htm
 

DAVID PRINOSIL

   http://www.geocities.com/colosseum/sideline/2158
 

PATRICK RAFTER - IMG:

   http://www.ntplx.net/~radagast/rafter
 

LISA RAYMOND - Advantage

MARCELO RIOS - IMG :

   http://www.entelchile.net/mrios
   http://www.marcelorios.cl
   http://cec.uchile.cl/~irivera/chino.html
   http://www.cmet.net/mrios.htm
 

MARC ROSSET - IMG

CHANDA RUBIN - Advantage :

   http://www.satchmo.com/nolavl/chanda.html
 

GREG RUSEDSKI

   http://www.csv.warwick.ac.uk/~mauds/greg.html
 

GABRIELA SABATINI - ProServ:

   http://www.satlink.com/sabatini
   http://www.louisville.edu/~jsjuno01/gaby.html
 

PETE SAMPRAS - IMG:

   http://www.sportsline.com/u/sampras (Official)
   http://www.australia.net.au/~gumby/index.htm
 

ARANTXA SANCHEZ VICARIO - IMG

   http://members.tripod.com/~CMSTRONG/index.html
 

PATTY SCHNYDER

   http://www.sportpromotion.ch/pattyonline
 

MONICA SELES - IMG:

   http://www.primenet.com/~zed/seles/seles.html
   http://users.aol.com/Rostco/monica/monica.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/7491/index.html
 

ANNE-GAELLE SIDOT

   http://depinfo.u-bourgogne.fr:80/~panne/agsidot
 

VINCE SPADEA - IMG

BRETT STEVEN

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Sideline/9274/steven.htm
 

JASON STOLTENBERG - Advantage
KATARINA STUDENIKOVA - AMI

AI SUGIYAMA :

   http://www.opel.co.jp/AI/Aihome.html
   http://www.goldwin.co.jp/atlanta/sugiyama/index.html
 

TAMARINE TANASUGARN

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Loge/8390
 

GUILLERMO VILAS

   http://www.overnet.com.ar/Users/vilas.html
 

MALIVAI WASHINGTON - ProServ

   http://maltennis.com/Found.html
 

DAVID WHEATON - IMG
JUDITH WIESNER - Advantage
VENUS WILLIAMS

   http://surf.to/venuswilliams
 

TOOD WOODBRIDGE

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/7298
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 

FAQ for rec.sport.tennis (3/6) - Player
Information

Archive-name: sports/tennis-faq/player-info
 

                   FAQ for rec.sport.tennis -- File 3 of 6
                             Player Information

   File    Item    Title
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
     3      3.1    Grand Slam Winners  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            3.2    Grand Slam Event Winners - Open Era . . . . . .
            3.3    Number of Grand Slam Singles Titles Won . . . .
            3.4    Players - Career Singles Titles . . . . . . . .
            3.5    Head-to-Head Records  . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            3.6    Player and Fan Club Information . . . . . . . .
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.1                    Grand Slam Winners

     The highest achievement in professional tennis is winning the Grand
     Slam, which means winning all four major titles, the Australian Open,
     the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open, in the same calendar
     year.  Therefore, those four tournaments are also called the Grand
     Slam events.

     Following are Grand Slam winners and the year(s) they won the Grand
     Slam:

         Budge         1938             Connolly      1953
         Laver         1962             Court         1970
           "           1969             Graf          1988 *

   * Graf won a "Golden Slam" -- The Grand Slam plus the 1988 Olympic
     Gold Medal.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.2             Grand Slam Event Winners in the Open Era
 

  Note: During the late seventies through 1985, the Australian Open was
        held in the month of December.  The Australian Open was held in
        January starting in 1987 and was not held in 1986.

Men
           (Jan.)                                                  (Dec.)
         Australian    French        Wimblebon     US Open       Australian
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998     Korda
1997     Sampras       Kuerten       Sampras       Rafter
1996     Becker        Kafelnikov    Krajicek      Sampras
1995     Agassi        Muster        Sampras       Sampras
1994     Sampras       Bruguera      Sampras       Agassi
1993     Courier       Bruguera      Sampras       Sampras
1992     Courier       Courier       Agassi        Edberg
1991     Becker        Courier       Stich         Edberg
1990     Lendl         Gomez         Edberg        Sampras
1989     Lendl         Chang         Becker        Becker
1988     Wilander      Wilander      Edberg        Wilander
1987     Edberg        Lendl         Cash          Lendl
1986                   Lendl         Becker        Lendl
1985                   Wilander      Becker        Lendl         Edberg
1984                   Lendl         McEnroe       McEnroe       Wilander
1983                   Noah          McEnroe       Connors       Wilander
1982                   Wilander      Connors       Connors       Kriek
1981                   Borg          McEnroe       McEnroe       Kriek
1980                   Borg          Borg          McEnroe       Teacher
1979                   Borg          Borg          McEnroe       Vilas
1978                   Borg          Borg          Connors       Vilas
1977     Gerulaitis    Vilas         Borg          Vilas         Tanner
1976     Edmondson     Panatta       Borg          Connors
1975     Newcombe      Borg          Ashe          Orantes
1974     Connors       Borg          Connors       Connors
1973     Newcombe      Nastase       Kodes         Newcombe
1972     Rosewall      Gimeno        Smith         Nastase
1971     Rosewall      Kodes         Newcombe      Smith
1970     Ashe          Kodes         Newcombe      Rosewall
1969     Laver         Laver         Laver         Laver / Smith **
1968     B Bowrey      Rosewall      Laver         Ashe / Ashe **
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Women
           (Jan.)                                                  (Dec.)
         Australian    French        Wimblebon     US Open       Australian
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998     Hingis
1997     Hingis        Majoli        Hingis        Hingis
1996     Seles         Graf          Graf          Graf
1995     Pierce        Graf          Graf          Graf
1994     Graf          Sanchez V.    Martinez      Sanchez V.
1993     Seles         Graf          Graf          Graf
1992     Seles         Seles         Graf          Seles
1991     Seles         Seles         Graf          Seles
1990     Graf          Seles         Navratilova   Sabatini
1989     Graf          Sanchez V.    Graf          Graf
1988     Graf          Graf          Graf          Graf
1987     Mandlikova    Graf          Navratilova   Navratilova
1986                   Evert         Navratilova   Navratilova
1985                   Evert         Navratilova   Mandlikova    Navratilova
1984                   Navratilova   Navratilova   Navratilova   Evert
1983                   Evert         Navratilova   Navratilova   Navratilova
1982                   Navratilova   Navratilova   Evert         Evert
1981                   Mandlikova    Evert         Austin        Navratilova
1980                   Evert         Goolagong     Evert         Mandlikova
1979                   Evert         Navratilova   Austin        B Jordan
1978                   Ruzici        Navratilova   Evert         C O'Neil
1977     Goolagong     Jausovec      Wade          Evert         Melville-Reid
1976     Goolagong     S Barker      Evert         Evert
1975     Goolagong     Evert         King          Evert
1974     Goolagong     Evert         Evert         King
1973     Court         Court         King          Court
1972     Wade          King          King          King
1971     Court         Goolagong     Goolagong     King
1970     Court         Court         Court         Court
1969     Court         Court         A Jones       Court / Court **
1968     King          Richey        King          Wade / King **
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

  **  US Open had Amateur and Pro tournaments in 1968 and 1969.
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.3   Number of Grand Slam Singles Titles Won (Players playing in Open Era)

    1. Emerson         12 *        1. Court           24
    2. Laver           11          2. Graf            21
       Borg            11          3. Navratilova     18
    4. Sampras         10             Evert           18
    5. Rosewall         8          5. King            12
       Connors          8          6. Seles            9
       Lendl            8          7. Goolagong        7
    8. Newcombe         7          8. Mandlikova       4
       McEnroe          7             Hingis           4
       Wilander         7         10. Sanchez Vicario  3
                                      Wade             3

    * Didn't win any GS titles in the Open Era.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.4      Players with Highest Number of Career Singles Titles (Open Era)

    1. Martina Navratilova    167       1. Jimmy Connors         109
    2. Chris Evert            157       2. Ivan Lendl             94
    3. Steffi Graf            103       3. John McEnroe           77
    4. Evonne Goolagong        88       4. Bjorn Borg             62
    5. Margaret Court          79          Guillermo Vilas        62
    6. Billie Jean King        67       6. Ilie Nastase           57
    7. Virginia Wade           55       7. Pete Sampras           52
    8. Monica Seles            41       8. Boris Becker           49
    9. Helga Masthoff          37       9. Rod Laver              47
   10. Olga Morozova           31      10. Thomas Muster          44
       Conchita Martinez       31
 
                                           Andre Agassi           36

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.5            Head-to-head win-loss records of selected top players

  The head-to-head tables for current players is no longer maintained.
  A more selective record of top players' head-to-heads will be posted
  in the future.

  Other Notable Match-Ups:
 
  Navratilova-Evert    43-37        Lendl-Connors        23-13
  Navratilova-Shriver  37-3         Lendl-McEnroe        20-15
  Navratilova-Graf      9-9         Borg-McEnroe          7-7
  Navratilova-Sabatini 15-6         Lendl-Edberg         13-14
  Seles-Navratilova    10-7         Lendl-Becker         11-10
  Martinez-Navratilova  4-1         Becker-Edberg        25-10
  Graf-Sabatini        29-11
  Seles-Sabatini       12-3
 

  Head-to-head records include regular tournaments, Davis Cup, the World
  Team Cup, etc., but not exhibitions and the Grand Slam Cup.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 3.6                Player and Fan Club Information

Most players can be written to in care of the agencies that represent them.
Addresses of the major agencies are provided immendiately below.  For many
players in the subsequent list, the agency representing the player is shown.
 
In most cases, the web sites listed in this section are unofficial player
information sites.  They are listed as a convenience for those who may
wish to find news, statistics, and/or photos of a particular player.

---------------------------------------------------------
Major Agencies:  International Management Group   (IMG)
                 One Erieview Plaza
                 Suite 1300
                 Cleveland, OH 44114, USA
                 Tel. 216-522-1200
 
                 Advantage International   (Advantage)
                 1751 Pinnacle Drive, Suite 1500
                 McLean, VA 22102, USA
                 Tel. 703-905-3300
 
                 ProServ
                 1101 Wilson Blvd.
                 Suite 1300
                 Tel. Arlington, VA 22209, USA
 
                 AMI Promanagement (AMI)
                 370 Felter Ave.
                 Hewlett, NY 11557, USA
                 Tel. 516-569-8922
---------------------------------------------------------
 
 
Players:

ANDRE AGASSI - IMG

   http://www.superstars.com/andreagassi/index.html
   http://www.ids.net/~mattg/agassi/agassi.html
 

KARIM ALAMI - Advantage

SABINE APPELMANS - Advantage

   http://www.ping.be/~ping0200/sabine.html
   http://www.xs4all.be/~kghysens
 

YAYUK BASUKI

   http://www.perspektif.net/yayuk
   http://www.cam.org/~etoombs/yayuk.html
 

BORIS BECKER

   http://freeweb.aspide.it/free/borisbecker
   http://www.ids.net/~japolin/boris.html
 

ALBERTO BERASATEGUI - Proserv
JONAS BJORKMAN - Advantage
ARNAUD BOETSCH - IMG
SERGI BRUGUERA - IMG

JENNIFER CAPRIATI

   http://www.mc.vanderbilt.edu/medschool/students/gstein/Capriati
 

MICHAEL CHANG - Advantage

   http://www.mchang.com (Official)
   http://alcor.concordia.ca/~ct_chan/mchang.html
   http://www.geocities.com/Tokyo/8319/mc.html
 

AMANDA COETZER - ProServ

   http://web.idirect.com/~coetzer
   http://www.wu-wien.ac.at/usr/h89/h8924465
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/4504
 

ALEX CORRETJA

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Bleachers/8686/alex_home.html
 

ALBERT COSTA - Advantage

JIM COURIER - IMG

   http://members.aol.com/ARegas/index.htm
 

KIMIKO DATE

   http://www.twics.com/~finlandh/date/kimiko.htm
   http://www.goldwin.co.jp/atlanta/date/index.html
   http://tsk-www.ss.titech.ac.jp/~shino/Kimiko/kimikoHP.html
 

LINDSAY DAVENPORT - IMG

   http://www.angelfire.com/ca/lindsaydavenport/index.html
 

RUXANDRA DRAGOMIR - AMI
STEFAN EDBERG - ProServ
THOMAS ENQVIST - IMG

   http://www.mygale.org/10/enqvist/index.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Field/4509
 

MARY JOE FERNANDEZ - IMG

   http://www.stack.urc.tue.nl/~wil/mary-joe.html
 

WAYNE FERREIRA - IMG

   http://homepage.esoterica.pt/~edias/wferreira
 

AMY FRAZIER - Advantage

   http://www.mc.vanderbilt.edu/medschool/students/gstein/Frazier
 

ANDREA GAUDENZI - AMI

INES GORROCHATEGUI

   http://www.epix.net/~bknizer/ines.html
 

STEFFI GRAF

   Steffi Graf International Supporters' Club
   --
   Jackie Tanner, 12108 Stoney Spur, San Antonio, TX  78247-3439, USA
       (e-mail: 73753.2571@CompuServe.COM)
   Chris Skelton, 308-2077 Prospect St, Burlington, Ontario L7R 1Z4, Canada
       (e-mail: cskelton@hookup.net)

   http://www.hookup.net/~cskelton
   http://www.octonet.com/~jo
   http://www.informatik.uni-tuebingen.de/internet/sport/tennis/graf.html
 

PAUL HAARHUIS - Advantage

TIM HENMAN - IMG

   http://www.advantage-tennis.com/henman/memdet.htm
 

MARTINA HINGIS - IMG

   http://www.hingis.ch
   http://www.stack.urc.tue.nl/~geertt/martina.html
   http://www2.active.ch/~markus/martina.html
   http://falcon.cc.ukans.edu/~ransari/martina.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Paris/Metro/5190/index2.html
 

RIKA HIRAKI

   http://www2b.meshnet.or.jp/~deuceit
 

ANKE HUBER

   http://www.pncl.co.uk/~a.huber/index.html
   http://www.calvin.edu/~tslage78
   http://student.uq.edu.au/~s335129/huber/huber.html
 

GORAN IVANISEVIC

   http://www.waterw.com/~sbhakta/goran.htm
 

LUKE & MURPHY JENSEN - ProServ
YEVGENY KAFELNIKOV - IMG

JANA KANDARR - IMG

   http://www.tref.nl/1378/sport/jana1.htm
 

PETR KORDA - ProServ

   http://www.eccentrica.com/user/petro/korda.html
 

ANNA KOURNIKOVA - IMG

   http://www.healey.com.au/~bgrosman/anna
 

RICHARD KRAJICEK - Advantage
 

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Sideline/2958
 

GUSTAVO KUERTEN

   http://www.virtuacomm.com/gugakuerten
 

FLORENCIA LABAT

   http://members.tripod.com/~Chris_G/index.html
 

MAGNUS LARSSON

   http://members.aol.com/cowiedd/larsson.html
 

MIRJANA LUCIC

   http://www.lucic.com
   http://209.75.40.56
 

IVA MAJOLI - IMG

   http://srcm1.zems.fer.hr/~majoli
 

MAGDALENA MALEEVA - Advantage

   http://www2.minn.net/gmoney
   http://www.angelfire.com/ga/magmal/index.html
 

TODD MARTIN - Advantage

CONCHITA MARTINEZ - Advantage

   http://ogyalla.konkoly.hu/staff/zsoldos/Conchita/home.html
 

LORI MCNEIL - IMG
 

RACHEL MCQUILLAN

   http://home.t-online.de/home/Frank.Freitag/index.html
 

CARLOS MOYA

   http://www.laredcafe.com/jasm/moya.html
 

THOMAS MUSTER - AMI

   http://www.geocities.com/Paris/9644/muster.html
   http://www3.sympatico.ca/laflamme3/Muster.htm
 

MARTINA NAVRATILOVA - IMG

JANA NOVOTNA - Advantage

   http://www.waterw.com/~sbhakta/novotna.htm
 

LEANDER PAES

   http://www.its.uci.edu/~jaykay/leander.html
 

BARBARA PAULUS - IMG

MARK PHILIPPOUSSIS - Advantage

   http://www.primenet.com/~zed/mp/mp.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/9519/MP.html
   http://www.geocities.com/Paris/LeftBank/3279/MARK.HTML
 

MARY PIERCE - IMG :

   http://www.alphalink.com.au/~benatar/pierce.htm
 

DAVID PRINOSIL

   http://www.geocities.com/colosseum/sideline/2158
 

PATRICK RAFTER - IMG:

   http://www.ntplx.net/~radagast/rafter
 

LISA RAYMOND - Advantage

MARCELO RIOS - IMG :

   http://www.entelchile.net/mrios
   http://www.marcelorios.cl
   http://cec.uchile.cl/~irivera/chino.html
   http://www.cmet.net/mrios.htm
 

MARC ROSSET - IMG

CHANDA RUBIN - Advantage :

   http://www.satchmo.com/nolavl/chanda.html
 

GREG RUSEDSKI

   http://www.csv.warwick.ac.uk/~mauds/greg.html
 

GABRIELA SABATINI - ProServ:

   http://www.satlink.com/sabatini
   http://www.louisville.edu/~jsjuno01/gaby.html
 

PETE SAMPRAS - IMG:

   http://www.sportsline.com/u/sampras (Official)
   http://www.australia.net.au/~gumby/index.htm
 

ARANTXA SANCHEZ VICARIO - IMG

   http://members.tripod.com/~CMSTRONG/index.html
 

PATTY SCHNYDER

   http://www.sportpromotion.ch/pattyonline
 

MONICA SELES - IMG:

   http://www.primenet.com/~zed/seles/seles.html
   http://users.aol.com/Rostco/monica/monica.htm
   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/7491/index.html
 

ANNE-GAELLE SIDOT

   http://depinfo.u-bourgogne.fr:80/~panne/agsidot
 

VINCE SPADEA - IMG

BRETT STEVEN

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Sideline/9274/steven.htm
 

JASON STOLTENBERG - Advantage
KATARINA STUDENIKOVA - AMI

AI SUGIYAMA :

   http://www.opel.co.jp/AI/Aihome.html
   http://www.goldwin.co.jp/atlanta/sugiyama/index.html
 

TAMARINE TANASUGARN

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/Loge/8390
 

GUILLERMO VILAS

   http://www.overnet.com.ar/Users/vilas.html
 

MALIVAI WASHINGTON - ProServ

   http://maltennis.com/Found.html
 

DAVID WHEATON - IMG
JUDITH WIESNER - Advantage
VENUS WILLIAMS

   http://surf.to/venuswilliams
 

TOOD WOODBRIDGE

   http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/7298
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FAQ for rec.sport.tennis (2/6) - Rankings

Archive-name: sports/tennis-faq/rankings
 

                   FAQ for rec.sport.tennis -- File 2 of 6
                               Rankings

   File    Item    Title
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
     2      2.1    ATP - ATP Tour Rankings (Men) . . . . . . . . .
            2.2    WTA - COREL WTA TOUR Rankings (Women) . . . . .
            2.3    WTA - Chase Championship Points (Women) . . . .
            2.4    ATP Tour Rankings - List of #1's  . . . . . . .
            2.5    COREL WTA TOUR Rankings - List of #1's  . . . .
            2.6    Year End #1 Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 2.1                     ATP - ATP Tour Rankings (Men)

The following ranking points information is valid for 1997 and presented
courtesy of the ATP Tour. The source for this information is the ATP Tour
Player Guide. Updated ranking lists are also available at the ATP Tour
web site (http://atptour.com).

Here is the complete information about the computer ranking points on the
IBM/ATP Tour.  Players are ranked on the basis of their best 14 results in
the previous 52 weeks. Prize money listed is on-site (not including hotel
rooms, etc., called "hospitality") and is in U.S. Dollars.
 

                  Total                  Computer Points
Category       Prize Money     W    F    S    Q    16   32   64   128
--------       -----------    ---  ---  ---  ---  ---- ---- ---- -----
Grand Slams     4,750,000     750  537  325  163   82   41   20    1
                5,000,000
 
Super 9         2,250,000-    370  265  160   80   40   20   10    1
(averaged)      2,500,000
 
Championship    2,000,000     360  258  155   78   39   20    1
  Series        1,875,000     350  250  150   75   38   19    1
                1,750,000     340  243  145   73   37   19    1
                1,625,000     330  235  140   70   35   18    1
                1,500,000     320  228  135   68   34   17    1
                1,375,000     310  220  130   65   33   17    1
                1,250,000     300  213  125   63   32   16    1
                1,125,000     290  205  120   60   30   15    1
                1,000,000     280  198  115   58   29   15    1
                  875,000     270  190  110   55   28   14    1
                  750,000     260  183  105   53   27   14    1
                  625,000     250  175  100   50   25   13    1
 
World           1,375,000     250  183  115   58   29   15    1
  Series        1,250,000     240  175  110   55   28   14    1
                1,125,000     230  168  105   53   27   14    1
                1,000,000     220  160  100   50   25   13    1
                  875,000     210  153   95   48   24   12    1
                  750,000     200  145   90   45   23   12    1
                  625,000     190  138   85   43   22   11    1
                  550,000     180  130   80   40   20   10    1
                  475,000     170  123   75   38   19   10    1
                  400,000     160  115   70   35   18    9    1
                  325,000     150  108   65   33   17    1
                  250,000     140  100   60   30   15    1
                  175,000     130   93   55   28   14    1
 
Challengers*      125,000+H   100   73   45   23   12    1
                  125,000      90   65   40   20   10    1
                  100,000      80   58   35   18    9    1
                   75,000      70   50   30   15    8    1
                   50,000      60   43   25   13    7    1

* Any Challenger providing hospitality will receive the points of the next
  highest prize money level. (Note: 125,000 + H points are shown).

First Round Losers
------------------
First round losers always receive 1 point. Any player who reached the second
round by drawing a bye and then loses will receive second round prize money
but only 1 point.
 

Bonus Points
------------

Main Draw Bonus Points
----------------------

The following points are awarded for defeating a player ranked #1 through 200
or a doubles team ranked 2 through 400. The match must actually be played,
not a walk-over.  Double Bonus Points are awarded instead of Regular Bonus
Points in the case of Grand Slam matches and best-of-5-set finals in Super
9 ATP tournaments.

 1. Singles
    -------          Regular          Double
    Ranking        Bonus Points    Bonus Points
    -------        ------------    ------------
       1               50             100
      2-5              45              90
      6-10             36              72
     11-20             24              48
     21-30             18              36
     31-50             12              24
     51-75              6              12
     75-100             3               6
    101-150             2               4
    151-200             1               2
 
2. Doubles
   -------           Regular          Double
    Ranking        Bonus Points    Bonus Points
    -------        ------------    ------------
      2-3              50             100
      4-10             45              90
     11-20             36              72
     21-40             24              48
     41-60             18              36
     61-100            12              24
    101-150             6              12
    151-200             3               6
    201-300             2               4
    301-400             1               2

You compute the sum of the doubles rankings of the opposing team
members (which could only be 2 if they were tied for #1) and thus
there is no #1 listed, and all the rankings are twice as much as the
corresponding singles rankings.

Qualifying Points
-----------------
A player or team gaining entry to an event through a qualifying
competition shall receive one half the points awarded to a second
round loser in the main draw, in addition to whatever points they
actually earn in the event.

In Grand Slam qualifying tournaments, players receive 1 point for
losing in the first round of qualifying, 3 points for losing in the
second round, and 5 points for losing in the third round.  In ATP
Championship Series Tournaments, players in qualifying receive 1 point
for losing in the first round and one quarter of the points a main
draw second round loser receives (plus bonus points) for losing in
the second round.  As of 1997 bonus points for beating ranked players
are awarded in Grand Slam and ATP Championship Series events.  Neither
ranking nor bonus points are awarded to players who fail to qualify
for ATP World Series tournaments.
 

Ranking Penalty: Withdrawals After 12 Noon Eastern Time USA
-----------------------------------------------------------
If a player withdraws from an event after 12 Noon Eastern Time USA on
the Friday before the start of the event, he will be penalized in the
rankings by one event per 12 month period, e.g. he will be ranked by
his best 13 events instead of his best 14 events after one such
infraction, by his best 12 events after 2 such infractions, etc. The
penalty shall remain in force for 52 weeks after the time of the
infraction.  This penalty shall be waived if, within the first 3 days
of the main draw, the player is examined on-site by the tournament
doctor and deemed incapable of competing at a professional level.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 2.2               WTA - COREL WTA TOUR Rankings (Women)

The women's computer rankings are determined as follows:

Points are awarded based on how far a player advances in a tournament.
Bonus points, based on the rankings of opponents beaten in each round,
are added.

On December 23, 1996, the COREL WTA TOUR ranking system transformed from
an averaging system to a lump-sum system.  Prior to this date, the total
points awarded for each tournament played within a 52-week period were
added & then divided by the number of tournaments played in that same
period (minimum divisor of 14 tournaments: if one played 13 or fewer,
her points were still divided by 14).

As of December 23, 1996, a simple sum of the ranking points awarded for
each tournament played during the prior 52 weeks were computed.  As of
December 29, 1997, only the best 18 results pointwise during the last
52 weeks count toward a player's ranking.  The ranking system as of the
beginning of 1998 is therefore nearly identical to the ATP Tour's ranking
system except that it is "best 18" instead of "best 14."

The current ranking system awards points based on the tier of a
tournament as well as the type of draw (the number of players in the
main draw in a tournament).
 

             Draw    W    F    SF   QF  R16 R32 R64 R128   Qfr Qu3 Qu2 Qu1
             ----------------------------------------------------------------
Grand Slams   128   520  364  234  130  72  44  26   2    16.5 12   6   2
WTA Chps       16   390  273  175   97  54   -   -   -      -   -   -   -
Lipton         96   260  182  117   65  36  22  13   1     11   6   3   1
Tier I         64   260  182  117   65  36  22   1   -      6   -   3   1
Tier I         32   260  182  117   65  36   1   -   -     11   6   3   1
Tier II        64   200  140   90   50  26  14   1   -      5   -   3   1
Tier II        32   200  140   90   50  26   1   -   -      9   5   3   1
Tier III       64   140   98   63   35  18  10   1   -      4   -   2   1
Tier III       32   140   98   63   35  18   1   -   -      7   3   2   1
Tier IV        64    80   56   36   20  10   6   1   -     2.5  -  1.5  1
Tier IV        32    80   56   36   20  10   1   -   -     4.5  3   2   1
$75,000        32    54   38   24   14   7   1   -   -     2.5  2  1.5  1
$50,000        32    36   25   16    9   5   1   -   -     2.5  2  1.5  1
$25,000        32    22   15   10    6   3   1   -   -     1.5  1  0.5 0.25
$10,000 (M)          10    7    5    3   1   -   -   -      -   -   -   -
$10,000        32     5    4    2   1.5  1  0.5  -   -     0.25 -   -   -
$ 5,000 (M)           5    4    2   1.5  1   -   -   -      -   -   -   -
             -----------------------------------------------------------------
 

  Prize Money : Tier I     $926,250
                Tier II    $450,000
                Tier III   $164,250
                Tier IV    $107,500
 

Singles Quality (Bonus) Points Table:

            Loser's Rank    Bonus Worth   Grand Slam Points
            -----------------------------------------------
                1             100              150
                2              75              113
                3              66               99
                4              55               83
                5              50               75
               6-10            43               65
              11-16            35               53
              17-25            23               35
              26-35            15               23
              36-50            10               15
              51-75             8               12
              76-120            4                6
             121-250            2                3
             251-500            1               1.5
               501+             0                0
            -----------------------------------------------
 

Doubles Quality (Bonus) Points Table:

            Loser's Rank*   Bonus Worth   Grand Slam Points
            -----------------------------------------------
               3-5            100              150
               6-10            90              135
              11-20            65              97.5
              21-30            45              67.5
              31-50            30               45
              51-80            20               30
              81-130           14               21
             131-200            9              13.5
             201-300            6                9
             301-500            4                6
               501+             2                3
            -----------------------------------------------
 
             * Combined rank of doubles team members

Source: COREL WTA TOUR

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 2.3             WTA - Chase Championships Points (Women)

The Chase Championship points are used to determine the eligibility
for the year-end Chase Championships at the Madison Square Garden in
New York City (the top 16 qualify) and each player's share of the bonus
money pool.

The Chase Championship points for each player is the simple sum of
points she receives from all tournaments in a calendar year.  As of 1996,
the number of WTA Championships points a player earns for a performance
at a given tournament is equivalent to the number of WTA Tour rankings
points, including bonus points, received for that tournament.  Ranking
points details are outlined in section 2.2 of the FAQ.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 2.4        ATP Tour Rankings - List of #1's Since August, 1973
 

Complete list of #1s on the ATP computer rankings (tennis, men's single)

                       Compiled by Shun Cheung

        NAME                                 Duration  Total (weeks)
    ----------------------------------------------------------------
     1. Nastase     1973-08-23 to 1974-06-02   40        40
     2. Newcombe    1974-06-03 to 1974-07-28    8         8
     3. Connors     1974-07-29 to 1977-08-22  160       268
     4. Borg        1977-08-23 to 1977-08-29    1       109
        Connors     1977-08-30 to 1979-04-08   84
        Borg        1979-04-09 to 1979-05-20    6
        Connors     1979-05-21 to 1979-07-08    7
        Borg        1979-07-09 to 1980-03-02   34
     5. McEnroe     1980-03-03 to 1980-03-23    3       170
        Borg        1980-03-24 to 1980-08-10   20
        McEnroe     1980-08-11 to 1980-08-17    1
        Borg        1980-08-18 to 1981-07-05   46
        McEnroe     1981-07-06 to 1981-07-19    2
        Borg        1981-07-20 to 1981-08-02    2
        McEnroe     1981-08-03 to 1982-09-12   58
        Connors     1982-09-13 to 1982-10-31    7
        McEnroe     1982-11-01 to 1982-11-07    1
        Connors     1982-11-08 to 1982-11-14    1
        McEnroe     1982-11-15 to 1983-01-30   11
        Connors     1983-01-31 to 1983-02-06    1
        McEnroe     1983-02-07 to 1983-02-13    1
        Connors     1983-02-14 to 1983-02-27    2
     6. Lendl       1983-02-28 to 1983-05-15   11       270
        Connors     1983-05-16 to 1983-06-05    3
        McEnroe     1983-06-06 to 1983-06-12    1
        Connors     1983-06-13 to 1983-07-03    3
        McEnroe     1983-07-04 to 1983-10-30   17
        Lendl       1983-10-31 to 1983-12-11    6
        McEnroe     1983-12-12 to 1984-01-08    4
        Lendl       1984-01-09 to 1984-03-11    9
        McEnroe     1984-03-12 to 1984-06-10   13
        Lendl       1984-06-11 to 1984-06-17    1
        McEnroe     1984-06-18 to 1984-07-08    3
        Lendl       1984-07-09 to 1984-08-12    5
        McEnroe     1984-08-13 to 1985-08-18   53
        Lendl       1985-08-19 to 1985-08-25    1
        McEnroe     1985-08-26 to 1985-09-08    2
        Lendl       1985-09-09 to 1988-09-11  157
     7. Wilander    1988-09-12 to 1989-01-29   20        20
        Lendl       1989-01-30 to 1990-08-12   80
     8. Edberg      1990-08-13 to 1991-01-27   24        72
     9. Becker      1991-01-28 to 1991-02-17    3        12
        Edberg      1991-02-18 to 1991-07-07   20
        Becker      1991-07-08 to 1991-09-08    9
        Edberg      1991-09-09 to 1992-02-09   22
    10. Courier     1992-02-10 to 1992-03-22    6        58
        Edberg      1992-03-23 to 1992-04-12    3
        Courier     1992-04-13 to 1992-09-13   22
        Edberg      1992-09-14 to 1992-10-04    3
        Courier     1992-10-05 to 1993-04-11   27
    11. Sampras     1993-04-12 to 1993-08-22   19       218+
        Courier     1993-08-23 to 1993-09-12    3
        Sampras     1993-09-13 to 1995-04-09   82
    12. Agassi      1995-04-10 to 1995-11-05   30        32
        Sampras     1995-11-06 to 1996-01-28   12
        Agassi      1996-01-29 to 1996-02-11    2
    13. Muster      1996-02-12 to 1996-02-18    1         6
        Sampras     1996-02-19 to 1996-03-10    3
        Muster      1996-03-11 to 1996-04-14    5
        Sampras     1996-04-15 to 1998-03-29  102
    14. Rios        1998-03-30 to 1998-04-26    4         4
        Sampras     1998-04-27 to      ??

The ATP Tour computer rankings on men's singles tennis began in 1973.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 2.5  COREL WTA TOUR Rankings - List of #1's Since November, 1975
 

  Complete list of #1s on the WTA computer rankings since November, 1975
                    (tennis, women's single)

                    Compiled by Shun Cheung

        NAME                                 Duration  Total (weeks)
    ----------------------------------------------------------------
     1. Evert       1975-11- ? to 1978-07-09 ~140      ~262
     2. Navratilova 1978-07-10 to 1979-01-13   27       331
        Evert       1979-01-14 to 1979-01-27    2
        Navratilova 1979-01-28 to 1979-02-24    4
        Evert       1979-02-25 to 1979-04-15    7
        Navratilova 1979-04-16 to 1979-06-24   10
        Evert       1979-06-25 to 1979-09-09   11
        Navratilova 1979-09-10 to 1980-04-06   30
     3. Austin      1980-04-07 to 1980-04-20    2        22
        Navratilova 1980-04-21 to 1980-06-30   10
        Austin      1980-07-01 to 1980-11-17   20
        Evert       1980-11-18 to 1982-05-02   76
        Navratilova 1982-05-03 to 1982-05-16    2
        Evert       1982-05-17 to 1982-06-13    4
        Navratilova 1982-06-14 to 1985-06-09  156
        Evert       1985-06-10 to 1985-10-13   18
        Navratilova 1985-10-14 to 1985-10-27    2
        Evert       1985-10-28 to 1985-11-24    4
        Navratilova 1985-11-25 to 1987-08-16   90
     4. Graf        1987-08-17 to 1991-03-10  186       377
     5. Seles       1991-03-11 to 1991-08-04   21       177
        Graf        1991-08-05 to 1991-08-11    1
        Seles       1991-08-12 to 1991-08-18    1
        Graf        1991-08-19 to 1991-09-08    3
        Seles       1991-09-09 to 1993-06-06   91
        Graf        1993-06-07 to 1995-02-05   87
     6. Sanchez V.  1995-02-06 to 1995-02-19    2        12
        Graf        1995-02-20 to 1995-02-26    1
        Sanchez V.  1995-02-27 to 1995-04-09    6
        Graf        1995-04-10 to 1995-05-14    5
        Sanchez V.  1995-05-15 to 1995-06-11    4
        Graf        1995-06-12 to 1995-08-20   10
        Graf/Seles  1995-08-21 to 1996-11-03   63
        Graf        1996-11-04 to 1996-11-17    2
        Graf/Seles  1996-11-18 to 1996-11-24    1
        Graf        1996-11-25 to 1997-03-30   18
     7. Hingis      1997-03-31 to      ??

Graf and Seles were co-#1s for part of 1995-96.  Source: COREL WTA TOUR
Media Guide

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 2.6                     Year End #1 Players

Here is a list of players who have been raked #1 as of the end of a calendar
year (i.e., they were the #1 player for that calendar year).  The list is
based on the ATP/WTA #1 rankings detailed in previous sections.

        Year          Male #1        Female #1
        ----------------------------------------
        1973          Nastase
        1974          Connors
        1975          Connors        Evert
        1976          Connors        Evert
        1977          Connors        Evert
        1978          Connors        Navratilova
        1979          Borg           Navratilova
        1980          Borg           Evert
        1981          McEnroe        Evert
        1982          McEnroe        Navratilova
        1983          McEnroe        Navratilova
        1984          McEnroe        Navratilova
        1985          Lendl          Navratilova
        1986          Lendl          Navratilova
        1987          Lendl          Graf
        1988          Wilander       Graf
        1989          Lendl          Graf
        1990          Edberg         Graf
        1991          Edberg         Seles
        1992          Courier        Seles
        1993          Sampras        Graf
        1994          Sampras        Graf
        1995          Sampras        Graf
        1996          Sampras        Graf
        1997          Sampras        Hingis
 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
 

FAQ for rec.sport.tennis (1/6) -
Tournaments

Archive-name: sports/tennis-faq/tournaments
 

                   FAQ for rec.sport.tennis -- File 1 of 6

                Version 1.44 --  Last Modified 27 April 1998
 
 

                           Table of Contents
 

   File    Item    Title
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------
     1      1.1    Schedule of Grand Slam Tournaments (1998) . . .
            1.2    Recent Grand Slam Event Highlights  . . . . . .
            1.3    ATP Tour Championships and Grand Slam Cup . . .
            1.4    Explanation of ATP Tour "Super 9" . . . . . . .
            1.5    1998 Tournament Calendar  . . . . . . . . . . .
            1.6    Davis Cup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            1.7    Fed Cup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     2      2.1    ATP - ATP Tour Rankings (Men) . . . . . . . . .
            2.2    WTA - COREL WTA Tour Rankings (Women) . . . . .
            2.3    WTA - Chase Championship Points (Women) . . . .
            2.4    ATP Tour Rankings - List of #1's  . . . . . . .
            2.5    COREL WTA TOUR Rankings - List of #1's  . . . .
            2.6    Year End #1 Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

     3      3.1    Grand Slam Winners  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            3.2    Grand Slam Event Winners - Open Era . . . . . .
            3.3    Number of Grand Slam Singles Titles Won . . . .
            3.4    Players - Career Singles Titles . . . . . . . .
            3.5    Head-to-Head Records  . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            3.6    Player and Fan Club Information . . . . . . . .

     4      4.1    Buying a Tennis Racquet -- Issues to Consider .
            4.2    Explanation of Racquet Grips  . . . . . . . . .
            4.3    Facts About Frames and Strings  . . . . . . . .
            4.4    Lead Tape and Its Application . . . . . . . . .
            4.5    Racquet Stringing Information . . . . . . . . .

     5      5.1    Tennis Information - World Wide Web . . . . . .
            5.2    Other Online Tennis Information . . . . . . . .
            5.3    ATP and WTA Media Guides  . . . . . . . . . . .
            5.4    Addresses of TV and Tennis Organizations  . . .
            5.5    Tennis Book Bibliography  . . . . . . . . . . .

     6      6.1    Tennis Elbow  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            6.2    USTA Self Rating System . . . . . . . . . . . .
            6.3    USTA Rules and Code On-Line . . . . . . . . . .
            6.4    Origin of Scoring System in Tennis  . . . . . .
            6.5    Tennis Tie-Break Rules  . . . . . . . . . . . .
            6.6    Dimensions of a Tennis Court  . . . . . . . . .
            6.7    Professional Tournament Seeding . . . . . . . .
            6.8    World Team Tennis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
            6.9    Common Pro Tennis Acronyms  . . . . . . . . . .

            A.1    Acknowledgements  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
   ---------------------------------------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 1.1          Schedule of Grand Slam Tournaments (1998)

                  Event                   Dates
              ---------------------------------------
              Australian Open         Jan 19 - Feb 1
              French Open             May 25 - Jun 7
              Wimbledon               Jun 22 - Jul 5
              US Open                 Aug 31 - Sep 13
              ---------------------------------------

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 1.2  Grand Slam Singles Results -- Quarterfinals Onward -- Last 4 GS Events

               (Round of 16 Losers shown in parentheses)

 Australian Open 1998 - Women:

 (Basuki)         Hingis 1  --------+ Hingis
                                    |-------------+
 (Nagyova)        Pierce 5  --------+ 6-2 6-3     | Hingis
                                                  |-------------+
 (Coetzer 3)      Huber 10  --------+ Huber       | 6-1 2-6 6-1 |
                                    |-------------+           +-------------+
 (Sugiyama 16)   Sanchez 7  --------+ 7-6 7-5                 |   Hingis    |
                                                              |             |
 (Schett)       Martinez 8  --------+ Martinez                |   6-3 6-3   |
                                    |-------------+           +-------------+
 (Tanasugarn)     Testud 9  --------+ 6-3 6-2     | Martinez    |
                                                  |-------------+
 (Schnyder)     V Williams  --------+ Davenport   | 4-6 6-3 6-3
                                    |-------------+
 (Dragomir 15) Davenport 2  --------+ 1-6 7-5 6-3

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 Australian Open 1998 - Men:

 (Arazi)         Sampras 1  --------+ Kucera
                                    |-------------+
 (Fromberg)         Kucera  --------+ 6-4 6-2 6-7 | Korda
                                        6-3       |-------------+
 (B Black)      Bjorkman 4  --------+ Korda       | 6-1 6-4 1-6 |
                                    |-------------+   6-2     +-------------+
 (Pioline)         Korda 6  --------+ 3-6 5-7 6-3             |   Korda     |
                                        6-4 6-2               |             |
 (Woodbridge)       Escude  --------+ Escude                  | 6-2 6-2 6-2 |
                                    |-------------+           +-------------+
 (Raoux)            Kiefer  --------+ 4-6 3-6 6-4 | Rios        |
                                        6-1 6-2   |-------------+
 (Roux)             Rios 9  --------+ Rios        | 6-1 6-3 6-2
                                    |-------------+
 (Agassi)      Berasategui  --------+ 6-7 6-4 6-4
                                        6-0

 Doubles Finals -
   Men  :  Bjorkman/Eltingh(5) d. Woodbridge/Woodforde(1) 6-2 5-7 2-6 6-4 6-3
   Women:  Hingis/Lucic d. Davenport/Zvereva(1)           6-4 2-6 6-3
   Mixed:  Gimelstob/V Williams d. Suk/Sukova             6-2 6-1

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 French Open 1997 - Women:

 (Paulus 16)      Hingis 1  --------+ Hingis
                                    |-------------+
 (Zvereva)  Sanchez Vic. 6  --------+ 6-2 6-2     | Hingis
                                                  |-------------+
 (Pierce 10)       Seles 3  --------+ Seles       | 6-7 7-5 6-4 |
                                    |-------------+           +-------------+
 (Raymond)  M Fernandez 12  --------+ 3-6 6-2 7-5             |   Majoli    |
                                                              |             |
 (Davenport 5)    Majoli 9  --------+ Majoli                  |   6-4 6-2   |
                                    |-------------+           +-------------+
 (Arendt)         Dragomir  --------+ 6-3 5-7 6-2 | Majoli      |
                                                  |-------------+
 (Martinez 7)   Coetzer 11  --------+ Coetzer     | 6-3 4-6 7-5
                                    |-------------+
 (Spirlea 13)       Graf 2  --------+ 6-1 6-4

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 French Open 1997 - Men:

 (Rosset 15)      M Norman  --------+ Dewulf
                                    |-------------+
 (Corretja 8)       Dewulf  --------+ 6-2 6-7 6-4 | Kuerten
                                        6-3       |-------------+
 (Philippou.) Kafelnikov 3  --------+ Kuerten     | 6-1 3-6 6-1 |
                                    |-------------+   7-6     +-------------+
 (Medvedev)        Kuerten  --------+ 6-2 5-7 2-6             |   Kuerten   |
                                        6-0 6-4               |             |
 (Woodforde)        Rafter  --------+ Rafter                  | 6-3 6-4 6-2 |
                                    |-------------+           +-------------+
 (Korda)            Blanco  --------+ 6-3 7-6 6-3 | Bruguera    |
                                                  |-------------+
 (Rios 7)            Arazi  --------+ Bruguera    | 6-7 6-1 7-5
                                    |-------------+   7-6
 (Chang 2)     Bruguera 16  --------+ 4-6 6-3 6-2
                                        6-2
 Doubles Finals -
   Men  :  Kafelnikov/Vacek(4) d. Woodbridge/Woodforde(1)      7-6 4-6 6-3
   Women:  G Fernandez/Zvereva(1) d. MJ Fernandez/Raymond(5)   6-2 6-3
   Mixed:  Hiraki/Bhupathi(16) d. Raymond/Galbraith(1)         6-4 6-1
 
 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
 Wimbledon 1997 - Women:
 
 (Appelmans)      Hingis 1  --------+ Hingis
                                    |-------------+
 (Vento)         Chladkova  --------+ 6-3 6-2     | Hingis
                                                  |-------------+
 (Spirlea 12)     Majoli 4  --------+ Kournikova  | 6-3 6-2     |
                                    |-------------+           +--------------+
 (Sukova)       Kournikova  --------+ 7-6 6-4                 |   Hingis     |
                                                              |              |
 (Hy-Boulais)       Basuki  --------+ Novotna                 | 2-6 6-3 6-3  |
                                    |-------------+           +--------------+
 (Fernandez 11)  Novotna 3  --------+ 6-3 6-3     | Novotna     |
                                                  |-------------+
 (Pierce 9)   Sanchez V. 8  --------+ Sanchez     | 6-4 6-2
                                    |-------------+
 (Testud)          Tauziat  --------+ 6-2 7-5

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 Wimbledon 1997 - Men:

 (Korda 16)      Sampras 1  --------+ Sampras
                                    |-------------+
 (Rios 9)         Becker 8  --------+ 6-4 6-7 6-1 | Sampras
                                        6-4       |-------------+
 (Kafelnikov 3)     Kiefer  --------+ Woodbridge  | 6-2 6-1 7-6 |
                                    |-------------+           +--------------+
 (Rafter 12)    Woodbridge  --------+ 7-6 2-6 6-0             |   Sampras    |
                                        6-4                   |              |
 (Woodforde)         Stich  --------+ Stich                   | 6-4 6-2 6-4  |
                                    |-------------+           +--------------+
 (Krajicek 4)    Henman 14  --------+ 6-3 6-2 6-4 | Pioline     |
                                                  |-------------+
 (Reneberg)       Rusedski  --------+ Pioline     | 6-7 6-2 6-1
                                    |-------------+   5-7 6-4
 (Steven)          Pioline  --------+ 6-4 4-6 6-4
                                        6-3
 Doubles Finals -
   Men  :  Woodbridge/Woodforde(1) d. Eltingh/Haarhuis(2)   7-6 7-6 5-7 6-3
   Women:  G Fernandez/Zvereva(1) d. Arendt/Bollegraf(6)    7-6 6-4
   Mixed:  Suk/Sukova(4) d. Olhovskiy/Neiland(3)            4-6 6-3 6-4

 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 US Open 1997 - Women:

 (Labat)          Hingis 1  --------+ Hingis
                                    |-------------+
 (McQuillan)    Sanchez 13  --------+ 6-3 6-2     | Hingis
                                                  |-------------+
 (Fernandez 12)  Novotna 3  --------+ Davenport   | 6-2 6-4     |
                                    |-------------+           +--------------+
 (Serna)       Davenport 6  --------+ 6-2 4-6 7-6             |   Hingis     |
                                                              |              |
 (Kruger)       V Williams  --------+ Williams                |   6-0 6-4    |
                                    |-------------+           +--------------+
 (Habsudova)        Testud  --------+ 7-5 7-5     | Williams    |
                                                  |-------------+
 (Coetzer 5)    Spirlea 11  --------+ Spirlea     | 7-6 3-6 7-6
                                    |-------------+
 (Pierce 9)        Seles 2  --------+ 6-7 7-6 6-3
 
 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
 US Open 1997 - Men:

 (Sampras 1)      Korda 15  --------+ Bjorkman
                                    |-------------+
 (Draper)         Bjorkman  --------+ 7-6 6-2 1-0 | Rusedski
                                        ret       |-------------+
 (Vacek)          Rusedski  --------+ Rusedski    | 6-1 3-6 3-6 |
                                    |-------------+   6-3 7-5 +--------------+
 (Mantilla 12)    Krajicek  --------+ 7-5 7-6 7-6             |    Rafter    |
                                                              | 6-3 6-2 4-6  |
 (Ferreira)        Larsson  --------+ Rafter                  |   7-5        |
                                    |-------------+           +--------------+
 (Agassi)        Rafter 13  --------+ 7-6 6-4 6-2 | Rafter      |
                                                  |-------------+
 (Bruguera 7)      Rios 10  --------+ Chang       | 6-3 6-3 6-4
                                    |-------------+
 (Pioline)         Chang 2  --------+ 7-5 6-2 4-6
                                        4-6 6-3
 Doubles Finals -
   Men  :  Kafelnikov/Vacek(4) d. Bjorkman/Kulti(11)          7-6 6-3
   Women:  Davenport/Novotna(3) d. G Fernandez/Zvereva(1)     6-3 6-4
   Mixed:  Bollegraf/Leach(5) d. Paz/Albano                   3-6 7-5 7-6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 1.3        The ATP Championships and the Grand Slam Cup

On the men's tour, there are two year-end singles championships: the ATP
Tour World Championship and the Grand Slam Cup.  There is also a year-end
doubles championship: The ATP Tour World Doubles Championship.
 
The ATP Tour World Championship
 
The ATP Tour World Championship in Hannover, Germany is the last singles
event on the ATP Tour in a calendar year.  The top eight (8) players in the
ATP rankings as of the Monday of the tournament qualify, while the ninth
player is the alternate.  The ATP rankings for this week only consists of
the "best 14" results from all tournaments in that calendar year, up to
and including the week immediately prior to the ATP Tour World Championship.
In other words, points received from this tournament in the previous year
are NOT included in the calculation of rankings.

The eight players are divided into two groups of four.  Within each group,
the four players face one another exactly once in round robin matches.  The
top two finishers from each group advance to the semi-final.  Within each
group, the two players who win the most matches finish 1 and 2.  If there
is a tie between two players, the one who wins their head-to-head match
wins the tie. If there is a three-way tie, the percentage of sets won will
be used to break the tie.  If there is still a tie, the percentage of games
won will be used to break the tie.

In the semi-final, the top finisher from one group plays the second from
the other.  The semi-final winners advance to the final, which is best-of-
five tie-break sets (i.e. if the fifth set is tied at 6-6, the players
will play a tie break to decide the match and therefore the championship).
All other matches are best-of-three tie-break sets.
 
In 1996, players received the following ranking points from the ATP Tour
World Championship.
 
each round robin match won:  80 points
winning a semi-final match: 190 points
winning the final:          280 points
No bonus points are given for beating ranked players in this tournament.
 
For example, if a player wins all three round robin matches and of course
the semi and final on the way to the title, he would have received:
  80 * 3 + 190 + 280 = 710 points

---------------------------------------

The ATP Tour World Doubles Championship

The ATP World Doubles Championship is the year-ending championship for
the top doubles teams on the ATP Tour.  In 1996, the doubles championship
was held in the United States in Hartford, CT.  The top eight (8)
doubles teams as of the Monday of the tournament qualify for the event.
Note that qualification is based on team rather than individual doubles
rankings.
 
As with the ATP Singles Championship, the early rounds of the doubles
championship is a round robin event featuring two groups of four teams.
The two top teams in each group, determined by round robin match results,
advance to the semifinals, whereupon a single-elimination draw format
is followed to ultimately determine the winner.

---------------------------------------

The Grand Slam Cup

The Grand Slam Cup in Munich, Germany is a tournament created by the ITF
(International Tennis Federation).  The Grand Slam Cup is not an ATP Tour
event.  No ranking points are awarded with this event, but the match
results do count toward the ATP head-to-head records (this is a change
from previous policy), and the Grand Slam Cup is now considered as an
official career title.

Eligibility for the Grand Slam Cup is determined by a player's results
from the four Grand Slam events in that calendar year.  The players are
awarded a certain number of points depending on how far they advance in
each event. The top 16 with the highest number of total points qualify.
Seedings for this event is determined by the GS points, NOT the usual
rankings.  The first two rounds of the Grand Slam Cup are best of three
sets.  The semi and final are best of five sets.  If a match reaches the
maximum set, that set has to be won by game advantage. That is, there is
no tie break in the 3rd set of best-of-three matches nor the 5th set of
best-of-five matches.

Grand Slam Cup points from GS events:
  winner:           600
  finalist:         450
  semi finalist:    300
  quarter finalist: 150
  round of 16:       75
  third round:       40
  second round:      20
  first round:        2
 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 1.4                 Explanation of ATP "Super 9"

  The tournaments on the ATP tour are designated into two main tiers
  (excluding Challenger events), called Championship Series and World
  Series.  Championship series events offer more prize money and attract
  bigger-name players.

  The ATP has given special status to 9 of their Championship Series
  tournaments.  These tournaments are known as the Super 9.

  An ATP Top Ten player is supposed to play in at least 8 of these 9
  special events, and each event must field at least eight of the Top
  Ten men (singles).  The idea is to get the top players to play each
  other more often and add prestige to selected ATP events.

  Super 9 Tour Dates in 1998:

    Event Location       Surface         Dates           1998 Champion
    --------------       -------         -----           -------------
    Indian Wells         Hard            Mar 9-15        Rios
 

http://www.cis.ohio-state.edu/hypertext/faq/bngusenet/rec/sport/tennis/top.html