Beyond the speed of the shots, ping-pong is a game of subtlety where the spin given to the ball is king. "Spin" is the ability to make the ball rotate on itself to change its trajectory, speed, and bounce. It's the secret weapon of champions and an essential element to master to take your game to the next level. Understanding and using different spins is about learning to destabilize your opponent.Understanding the three types of spinThere are three main types of spin, each with a unique impact on the ball and the way your opponent must respond.Topspin (lifted effect): The attackHow does it wo
Padel is always played in doubles, making the partnership the key to success. While chemistry and complementarity are essential, the combination of players' dominant hands can also create a significant strategic advantage. A right-handed, left-handed pair is often considered the ideal setup. But why is a left-handed player such a valuable asset for their right-handed partner?Optimized Court CoverageOne of the greatest strengths of a right-handed, left-handed pair is the symmetry it creates on the court. The right-handed player is typically positioned on the left and the left-handed player on t
The final act of the Grand Slam season, the US Open is the unmissable event of late summer. This tournament, held in New York, is known for its electric atmosphere, spectacular night sessions, and unforgiving hard courts. Blending tradition and modernity, the US Open offers a unique spectacle, often marked by the excess of the Big Apple.The History of the US Open: A Tournament That EvolvedUnlike Wimbledon or Roland-Garros, the US Open has undergone numerous changes over the decades, which has shaped its identity as a modern tournament.1881: The tournament began in Newport, Rhode Island, under
Badminton, often perceived as a simple pastime, is in reality a professional sport of extreme intensity and demand. With a strong presence in Asia and growing popularity in Europe, the international scene is rich with tournaments that showcase some of the most agile and explosive athletes in the world. Here's a general overview of the international tournaments you shouldn't miss if you want to get into the sport!The World Championships and the Olympic Games: The Quest for GoldThese two events represent the culmination of a career for any badminton player. They are the Holy Grail of internation
Squash boasts a dynamic and structured professional scene, but once again, the multitude of competitions can make understanding the circuit complex. For both casual fans and enthusiasts, comprehending the organization of this international circuit allows for a full appreciation of the sport's complexity and beauty.The PSA World Championship: The Supreme TitleThe PSA World Championship is the most prestigious event on the calendar, equivalent to a Grand Slam in tennis or a World Championship in other sports. It crowns the world's best male and female players each year.Historic Prestige: Founded
Pickleball, this rapidly growing hybrid racket sport, is attracting more and more enthusiasts thanks to its ease of learning and fun nature. But to fully enjoy the experience and progress, choosing the right equipment is essential. Beyond the rules, understanding the specifics of pickleball paddles, balls, and shoes will allow you to optimize your game and play in the best conditions.The Pickleball Paddle: Your Ally on the CourtThe paddle is the central piece of your equipment. Your choice will depend on your skill level, playing style, and preferences.Materials:Wood: The most economical and h
Table tennis is a global sport with ever-increasing popularity, boasting millions of players and a professional scene of intensity rarely found in other sports. Beyond national championships, the international arena is particularly crucial for players. This is where the world's best table tennis players compete to climb the world rankings. Today, we'll delve into how this international circuit is organized and what the unmissable competitions are.The World Table Tennis Championships (WTTC): The Pinnacle of CompetitionThe World Table Tennis Championships (WTTC) are, along with the Olympic Games
Tennis is a demanding sport, combining explosiveness, rapid movements, repeated strokes, and complex actions. While this intensity brings pleasure and physical benefits, it also exposes players to a risk of injury. Whether you're a fierce competitor or an occasional player, understanding the most common injuries and, more importantly, knowing how to prevent them is essential to continue enjoying the courts durably and pain-free.Upper limb injuries: shoulder and elbowThese areas are particularly stressed by serving, smashing, and forehand movements, making injuries frequent."Tennis Elbow" (Late
Padel is undoubtedly the trendy racket sport. Its conviviality, accessibility, and dynamism attract more and more players. But before you step onto the court, a legitimate question arises: how much does it really cost to play padel? Between court rentals, equipment, and potential lessons or subscriptions, let's take a look at the expenses to anticipate.The cost of occasional play: court rentalThe main expense for an occasional padel player is court rental. Padel is played by four people, so the cost is generally divided among the players.Hourly rates: Prices vary considerably depending on the
In badminton, the racket isn't just a tool; it's an extension of your arm. Choosing the one that suits your playing style and level is essential for your progress. While the market offers an infinite number of models, three main criteria can help you make the right choice: weight, balance, and flexibility.Weight: between maneuverability and powerThe weight of a racket is one of the most important criteria, as it directly influences your swing speed and maneuverability. Modern rackets generally weigh between 80 and 95 grams, classified from 1U to 6U (U for "unit," the higher the number, the lig
The Australian Open is more than just a tennis tournament; it's the kick-off to the Grand Slam season, an event that combines high performance with a unique atmosphere. Often dubbed the "Happy Slam" for its friendly vibe, it nonetheless remains a colossal challenge for players due to the summer heat and fast courts. Here's a bit of history about this tournament that so captivates the world of tennis.From Humble Beginnings to the Global "Happy Slam"The history of the Australian Open is one of constant ascent, propelling it from a remote event to one of tennis's four major tournaments.Founded in
Squash is a fast-paced and demanding sport. To optimize your performance, comfort, and prevent injuries, proper equipment is crucial. The right racket, specific shoes, and the appropriate ball can make all the difference. Here's how to make the best choices.The Squash Racket: An Extension of Your ArmYour racket should match your playing style. Key criteria include weight, balance, and head shape.Weight:Light (110-140 g): Ideal for maneuverability and offensive players.Medium (140-160 g): A good versatile compromise.Heavy (160+ g): More power and stability.Balance:Head-heavy: Favors power.Handl
Pickleball, this hybrid racket sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is experiencing exponential growth across the globe. With this growing popularity, dedicated infrastructures are multiplying, and some facilities are reaching colossal dimensions, becoming true temples for enthusiasts. Far from improvised courts, these complexes bear witness to the massive investment and unprecedented enthusiasm for pickleball. Let's explore together the three largest pickleball facilities in the world.Rhythm and Rally Sports and Events (Macon, Georgia, USA)Considered the world's la
Padel is unique among racket sports, and that's thanks to its walls! These glass or mesh walls aren't just court boundaries; they are an integral part of the game, offering infinite strategic possibilities. Mastering the art of playing with the walls is essential for any player who wants to move up to the next level, whether a beginner or experienced.Understanding Rebounds: Patience and AnticipationThe first step to mastering the walls is to understand how the ball reacts upon contact. Unlike tennis or squash, the ball doesn't "die" after hitting a wall. It offers a second chance, or a new tac
In table tennis, the serve isn't just a simple starting shot; it's the first attack. A good serve can catch the opponent off guard, prevent them from attacking, or even score the point directly. Having a complete serve means mastering the rules, placement, and spins. Ready to turn your serve into a real weapon to dominate the game?The Fundamentals: Rules and PreparationBefore thinking about spins, it's crucial to master the serving rules, which are often misunderstood.The serve must be performed behind the end line. The ball must be thrown into the air to a minimum height of 16 cm, without spi
Wimbledon is much more than just a tennis tournament. It's an institution, a place where tradition and elegance blend with the intensity of competition. The only Grand Slam played on grass, this London tournament captivates the entire world every summer. Discover its unique history, iconic traditions, and the anecdotes that have forged its legend.The Origins of a Legendary TournamentWimbledon's history began in 1877 with the first edition of the Lawn Tennis Championships, organized by the All England Croquet and Lawn Tennis Club. Only the men's singles were on the program then, but the rules e
