Category: Media

  • Must Read Tennis Book

    “Winning Singles Strategy for Recreational Tennis Players: 140 Tips and Tactics for Transforming Your Game” by Gerry Donohue is a book designed to help recreational tennis players improve their singles game through strategic play. Here’s a summary of its key features:

    • Focus on Strategy:
      • The book emphasises the importance of strategy over purely technical stroke improvement. It argues that understanding where to hit the ball, when, and why, is crucial for recreational players.
      • It aims to help players develop a strategic approach to their game, which is presented as a highly effective way to improve.
    • Target Audience:
      • It’s specifically tailored for recreational tennis players, acknowledging that they may not have the same level of skill or physical ability as professional players.
    • Content:
      • It provides 140 tips and tactics that players can use to enhance their singles game.
      • It covers topics such as:
        • Taking advantage of your strengths.
        • Minimising your weaknesses.
        • Attacking your opponent’s weaknesses.
        • Reducing unforced errors.
    • Practical Approach:
      • The book encourages players to adapt the strategies to their own game and to focus on what works for them.
      • It is designed to be a tool that can be used to improve the overall match play of the average tennis player.

    In essence, the book is a guide to help recreational tennis players play smarter, not just harder.

  • Stefanos at the Dubai Championships!

  • Desert Smash California: 3-4 March 2025

    Justin Bieber, Charlize Theron, Will Ferrell, and Kevin Hart in 2015

    Annual charity celebrity tennis event that blends the worlds of Hollywood and professional tennis. Here’s a breakdown of what it entails:

    • Charity Focus:
      • At its core, Desert Smash is a philanthropic event, raising funds for various charitable causes.
      • For example, the 2025 event will support the WTA Foundation’s Global Women’s Health Fund.
    • Celebrity and Pro Tennis Mix:
      • It brings together Hollywood stars, musicians, and professional tennis players for exhibition matches.
      • This creates a unique and entertaining experience for attendees.
    • Event Experience:
      • The event is held at the La Quinta Resort & Club in La Quinta, California.
      • It offers a combination of competitive tennis, entertainment, and VIP experiences.
      • It also now includes a celebrity pickleball challenge.
    • Purpose:
      • Desert Smash aims to raise significant funds for charitable organisations while providing an engaging and high-profile event.

    In essence, Desert Smash is a star-studded event that uses the popularity of tennis and celebrities to support important causes.

  • Quarter-Final Qatar

  • Wimbledon (2004 film)

    Romantic comedy film that’s set against the backdrop of the famous Wimbledon tennis tournament. It stars Kirsten Dunst and Paul Bettany.

    Here’s a quick summary of the movie:

    • Plot: Peter Colt (Bettany) is a British tennis player whose career is on the decline. He gets a wildcard entry into Wimbledon, possibly his last chance to shine. There, he meets Lizzie Bradbury (Dunst), a rising American tennis star. Their romance blossoms amidst the pressure of the tournament, and Peter finds renewed motivation both on and off the court.
    • Themes: The movie explores themes of love, ambition, second chances, and the pressures of professional sports.
    • Reception: “Wimbledon” received mixed reviews, with some critics finding it a predictable rom-com, while others praised the chemistry between the leads and the charming portrayal of the tennis world. It was a moderate success at the box office.

    Why it’s worth a watch:

    • Charming leads: Dunst and Bettany have great chemistry, making their romance believable and engaging.
    • Tennis setting: The movie offers a glimpse into the world of professional tennis, with some scenes filmed during the actual Wimbledon tournament.
    • Feel-good movie: If you’re looking for a light-hearted and entertaining romantic comedy, “Wimbledon” fits the bill.

    If you’re a fan of romantic comedies or tennis, “Wimbledon” might be an enjoyable movie to check out.