Clustering Winner Strokes in Professional Tennis Matches

In tennis match, the variability in stroke routes and landing location depth limits the opponent’s tactics and leads to winner shots. This study was aimed to explore stroking patterns of winner final shots and the hitting technique preferences of elite players when achieving such strokes. The study acquired the spatial-temporal data of all winner shots (7,126) from the 2022 Australian Open male and female singles matches. Additionally, we used clustering, kernel density estimation, and radar charts for the comprehensive statistical analysis and visual representation of stroke routes and hitting techniques. The main findings show that: (1) The strategic use of forehand inside-out/in on the backhand side was more prevalent in professional male singles matches compared to female matches; (2) Four empirical target locations for winner final shots were identified, with two in the non-deep area and two in the deep area, all positioned close to the sidelines; (3) In addition to establish baseline dominance, male players also emphasize approach and net strokes.