What You Can Learn From Ash Barty’s and Sabalenka’s String Tension

Key Points

• Barty vs. Sabalenka Tension Profiles
  Ash Barty: Known for ultimate court craft and finesse. Played with mid-40s string tension for better touch and feel.
  Aryna Sabalenka: Power-based, aggressive player. Uses mid-to-high 50s tension to maintain control and precisionon big shots.
  Difference of ~10 lbs in tension reflects completely different styles of play.
• How Tension Impacts Game Style
  Lower tension = More dwell time on strings → enhances touch and feel.
  Higher tension = Tighter stringbed → helps control trajectory on powerful strokes.
  Each player tailors tension to their natural tendencies and strategic needs.
• Adjusting Tension by Opponent
  Yes—it’s a smart strategy, though underused.
  Against a hard-hitter: Increase tension to absorb pace and keep your shots lower and more controlled.
  Against a soft-hitter: Lower tension to help generate more depth and power on slower incoming balls.
• Advice for Aspiring Players
  Unless you’re an elite-level power hitter, start in the low-to-mid 40s for optimal feel and control.
  Players who rely on touch, slice, or variety → stay at lower end of 40s.
  Players who like to be aggressive and take early control → aim for low-to-mid 50s.