Winning Ugly and Brad Gilbert All About Clay

I am sure everyone has heard of Brad Gilbert – es coach of Andy Murray, and author of the famous book pictured above- click on it if you want details from Amazon. Now read on for a view of Brad’s thoughts on that strange red tennis surface, not found on Tenerife, or for that not alot in the UK either.

This is his view for the USA – Gilbert says the U.S. needs a bigger clay court culture. Why? Because, “more than 80% of the top 10 players in the world have spent at least half their training time on clay, a stat that goes back to 1968.”

“Clay teaches discipline and how to build a point,” says Gilbert. “There are no cheap shots. It’s harder to put the ball away.” Like many Americans, Gilbert admits he didn’t embrace the surface, something he still regrets.

 

Playing on clay means:

Long points — which translate to improved decision making, patience and mental toughness;

Occasional irregular bounces and condition changes — making strokes more adaptable;- Los Gigantes tennis players please note.

Learning angles and spin control — it’s tough to end a point so players learn shot variety;

Healthier joints — the surface is more forgiving especially if you move well. Roger Federer is a great example of a top clay courter that could play into his mid 30s. Anyone over 45 will feel the difference as it’s so much easier on the body.

Gilbert recommends that competitive players spend at least half their training time on clay (like those in the top 10) if looking to grow their game. High school or college players using hard courts should use time-off to work on clay, focusing on topspin, accuracy and consistency.

Doubles lovers, clay-play teaches you to be more accurate and deliberate, ready for anything to come back.

Problem is, clay tennis courts are harder to find in the U.S. than in most tennis playing countries. Argentina and Spain are loaded. Cheaper to maintain, hard has been the go-to surface in the States for a long time. Clearly U.S. tennis needs to embrace the slide and add more clay, especially where competing kids are learning.

UK..are you reading this….