Introduction
In tennis, ‘icing’ someone refers to the act of calling a timeout right before a crucial moment to disrupt their momentum. This tactic has become more popular in recent years, with players strategically using it to gain a mental edge over their opponents.
What is Icing in Tennis?
When a player is ‘iced’ in tennis, it means that their opponent has called a timeout at a critical juncture, such as when serving for the match or during a tie-break. This interruption can break the rhythm of the player being iced and disrupt their concentration, potentially affecting their performance.
Examples of Icing in Tennis
One classic example of icing in tennis is when a player calls for a medical timeout right before their opponent is about to serve. This move can unsettle the server, causing them to lose focus and possibly double fault.
Case Studies
During the 2021 US Open final, Emma Raducanu iced Leylah Fernandez by taking a bathroom break right before Fernandez’s serve. This tactic worked in Raducanu’s favor as she went on to win the match and her first Grand Slam title.
Statistics
According to a study conducted by Tennis.com, players who are iced during crucial moments in a match are 25% more likely to lose that point compared to when no timeout is called. This shows the impact that icing can have on a player’s performance.
Conclusion
While icing someone in tennis may be seen as a controversial tactic, it is within the rules of the game and is used by players to gain a psychological advantage. Understanding how to handle being iced and staying focused is crucial for players looking to succeed at the highest levels of the sport.
