The article discusses the growing strategic importance of the drop shot in modern tennis, noting a pivotal moment when Daniil Medvedev observed its increased use against him following his defeat to Carlos Alcaraz. The article highlights that while drop shots were once seen as a tactic for less powerful players, they have gained recognition for their effectiveness in the current game, particularly as demonstrated by top players like Alcaraz. The drop shot now serves as a crucial technique for enhancing gameplay in an increasingly athletic sport, illustrating how tactics are evolving.
A little more than two years ago, Daniil Medvedev was working his way through the early rounds of the Miami Open when he noticed a distinct shift in his opponents' tactics.
There's a clear consensus that the drop shot perfectly complements an increasingly powerful, athletic sport, proving effective against players who solely rely on power.
The emergence of Alcaraz has strengthened that view, as almost every conversation with top players on this subject ends with a reference to the Spaniard.
Although Alcaraz is one of the most destructive ball strikers around, he also possesses deft hands and feel, exploiting opponents' vulnerabilities.
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