Random thoughts on the men’s and women’s past pro seasons. In both pro ranks one player has risen to the top and the others are chasing that athlete.
The number one spot is not easy. Not only do you get everyone’s best effort but as the others struggle to get to the finals, the top seed plays more matches. Playing more matches takes it toll. Physically it becomes a challenge as the athlete will never be injury free. There will always be some lit.
Concentration and dealing with challenges such as poor reffing, poor lighting, poor courts, etc etc all have to be dealt with. Now add the fact it is easier to be the hunter than the hunted. People can say they get bored watching the same people win, but I think that is not the winning athlete’s fault.
That is the challengers’ fault. Throw in the coach’s fault also as if I have not found the answer, I must take part of the blame. I did at one time coach the number one male and female players, but it is not easy! Think about it-the devil is in the details and if your athlete is number one, you have to work harder so your player has information to help them keep improving. That’s why there are very few double #1 (women and men pro tour) Coaches!
Much respect to the men and women out there in the past season and upcoming nationals, worlds, and upcoming 2025-26 season!