Tech in Tennis: A Commentary

The current accelerating evolution of technology and advanced analytics has deeply and widely touched almost every industry and aspect of our lives. Behind the scenes, with the expanding relevance, utility and acceptance of artificial intelligence and machine-learning systems, these new drivers of information are increasingly recognized as essential components of best practice and smart business.
 
Advanced technology and analytics are also rapidly gaining traction in the world of Sport – with leagues and teams devoting greater time and resources into technology systems to help guide training, performance, and strategic decisions. And we also have a growing selection of high-profile athletes using the latest personal wearables and investing in technology start-ups! At an individual level, more and more of us are concerned about health and want to closely monitor and track our exercise, training regimes and athletic performance. This is reinforced by a strong desire for more individualized and personalized programs.
 
What does all this massive influx of exercise- and athletic-related information mean? Is the potential insight to our complex human system during training and competition provided by the latest assortment of personal and shared monitoring technology essential – or is it excessive?
 
SIVOTEC Analytics provided some rational and cautionary perspective on this timely topic to the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) in their latest Physically Speaking on “Tech in Tennis.” While the focus here is on the world-class tennis industry, the recommendations are appropriate for all athletes – recreational to professional – in navigating the confusing and extensive array of readily available and affordable wearable and online technology options.
 
Valid data from the right context is a clear asset… but, in all instances, the resulting information and implementation of appropriate and effective individualized or group strategies need to be based on expertly guided and evidence-informed objective interpretation.

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Author

Dr. Michael Bergeron, Senior Vice President of Development & Applications