Stefanos Tsitsipas, Madison Keys' recent success highlights importance of using correct equipment

Equipment plays a key role in the eventual outcome on a match. Tennis is no different and it has become more evident with what happened in the recent past. Two players who struggled massively have managed find success on the court.

One of them is America’s Madison Keys. The 30-year-old recently lifted her first-ever Grand Slam as she defeated the reigning world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the final of the Australian Open with a score of 6-2, 2-6, 7-5. She defeated world number two Iga Swiatek in the semifinal with a score of 5-7, 6-1, 7-6.

Another player who has gathered some momentum recently is Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas. The 26-year-old lifted the Dubai Duty-Free Championship after beating Felix Auger Aliassime in the final in straight sets with a score of 6-3, 6-3. It was his first ATP 500 title in his career. Both players have a similar as both decided to change their equipment after struggling over the last 12 months. Reportedly, both players were using Wilson Blade. Keys, just before the Australian Open, decided to play Yonex Ezone, whereas Tsitsipas decided to turn to Babolat Aero. That once again shows how important it is for players to use right equipment which suits their ability.

Talking after the match, Tsitsipas explained how important it was to secure the title, that too after a lean patch of nearly 12 months. “There is nothing that ensured the win today, it was just pure fighting,” said Tsitsipas. “It’s a big relief that I’m able to hold that trophy after the third attempt. It’s something that I had in the back of my mind, and I’m happy to say I accomplished it. I had a great opponent on the other side of the net, I knew it was a difficult task. I’m just proud of the way I managed the pressure and was able to perform in those crucial moments. These are the things we are fighting for as professional tennis players. To be owning a spot in the Top 10 is definitely one of the greatest feelings a tennis player can experience. It comes with hard work and sacrifices, but I’m happy that I’m in a position where I can really celebrate.”