Why the Balance of Power in Men’s Tennis Is Due for a Seismic Shift in 2014

By
at Internationaled.org

Published: February 21, 2014

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Maybe Stanislas Wawrinka’s surprising Australian Open title was an anomaly in men’s tennis, but that has only fueled more speculation for media and fans who wonder how much more will change in 2014.

For the most part, the top two players, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, are the favorites for the three remaining Grand Slam titles and other big tournaments. But they are also rapidly approaching their 30s, and injuries always lurk in the shadows, waiting for inopportune moments to strike.

The resurgence of Roger Federer and comeback of Andy Murray also strengthen the field. These four megastar players will combine for more Grand Slam titles, but it will probably not be easy. At some point, their tennis dominance will be replaced.

Change can happen in the blink of an eye, but there are curious patterns from past decades to consider. If history is any indication, men’s tennis is due for a seismic shift in 2014.

 

The 10-Year Cycle of Seismic Shift

Since the Open era began, men’s tennis has always seen this seismic shift in years ending with a four. Here is the evidence:

1974: Jimmy Connors, age 21, blasted through the ATP tour with three Grand Slam titles—nearly half of the eight majors he would win in his career. Connors signaled that the distinguished amateur era stars were all but finished. His brash demeanor, baseline approach shots and return game turned the sport upside down.

For good measure, Bjorn Borg won his first major at the 1974 French Open. The professional era’s big superstars had arrived at once.



1984: This was the last demonstration of the wooden racket stars and bad boy John McEnroe. He was at the height of his career, racking up 13 titles, 82-3 record and majors at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. He nearly won the French Open but could not hold a two-set lead against Ivan Lendl.

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Article Source: Bleacher Report - Tennis

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