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Big data boost for tennis [Top Stories] [Times of India](Times of India Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) SINGAPORE: Aces, winners, unforced errors, serve percentages, double faults...these are regular stats that help in a performance analysis for the coachplayer. While all these facts may help understand how the game went, it doesn't take into the account the psychological factors of the game. In what could be a game-changer in women's tennis, software provider SAP and Women's Tennis Association announced the launch of a coaching app that uses big data for deeper analysis of the player's shots or serves when under pressure or a break down, the player's tendency to hit a particular shot, their second serve patterns, serve direction and other situational analysis. It will be provided on a real-time basis to the coaches during match play through a WTA-authorised mobile device and can be utilised during the player's coaching breaks, it was announced during the 2014 BNP Paribas WTA Finals in Singapore on Tuesday. "Tennis is a data-driven sport and information is power. Many of our matches usually come down to just a few key points and any advantage that players and coaches can gain by analyzing trends and data could deliver an edge in the match. "This technology sets a new standard for women's tennis and we're excited to work with SAP to innovate our sport and provide state-of-the-art resources to enhance our athletes' performances and our fans' experiences," WTA chairman and CEO Stacey Allaster said. Developed by SAP as a custombuilt solution based on requirements of the WTA and its players, the WTA coaching app has been used this season by players and coaches to prepare for future games. (c) 2014 Bennett, Coleman & Company Limited |