How Much Does A Tennis Ball Weight? Mass & Diameter
Tennis requires a set of specific equipment, including a tennis racket and balls. Tennis balls are an essential component of the game, and their weight and size are regulated by the International Tennis Federation (ITF). But do you know how much is the ideal weight of a tennis ball?
According to the guideline stipulated by ITF, a tournament-grade tennis ball must weigh between 56 grams and 59.4 grams (2 to 2.1 ounces). However, the diameter should stay between 6.54 cm and 6.86 cm (2.575” to 2.7”) with a little provision of front and back deformation.
But many different tennis organizations have their own set of rules when selecting tennis balls. Besides, coaches tend to use lighter balls to achieve better pace. So now, with the SportsMonkie team, let’s take a deep dive.
How Much Should A Tennis Ball Weight? – ITF’s Guideline
The ITF, which is the governing body of tennis, has strict guidelines regarding the size and weight of tennis balls. Besides, they also have a list of approved balls.
According to these guidelines, a tennis ball must have a diameter between 2.575 and 2.7 inches (6.54 to 6.86 cm) and weigh between 2 and 2.1 ounces (56 to 59.4 grams).
This standardization ensures that all tennis balls used in international competitions meet the same specifications.
Bonus: What Color Is A Tennis Ball? Regulations And Ongoing Debate
Weight And Diameter Limits
The diameter and weight limits of tennis balls in international opens and grand slams are strictly enforced. The balls are checked by officials before each match, and any balls that do not meet the ITF’s guidelines are rejected.
This helps to maintain consistency in the game and ensures that no player has an unfair advantage due to the size or weight of the ball.
Types Of Tennis Balls According To Weight
Tennis balls come in different types according to their weight and diameter. And there are three distinct categories of tennis balls used nowadays.
- Regular Balls: The most common type of tennis ball is the regular duty ball, which is used on most courts. Regular duty balls are suitable for use on clay or indoor courts and have a softer felt that wears down quickly.
- Heavy Duty Balls: These are designed for use on hard courts and have a thicker, more durable felt. It also weighs a bit more than the regular balls, although that remains inside the ITF’s guidelines.
- Specialized Training Balls: There are also specialized balls for training and coaching. These balls are typically larger and lighter than regular tennis balls, making them easier to hit and control.
Many good tennis academies regularly use specialized balls. They are also softer and designed to reduce the impact on the player’s arm, making them ideal for players who are recovering from an injury or looking to improve their technique.
Also Read: What Is An Ace In Tennis? Definition, Guide, Tips, & Stats
Interesting Facts About Tennis Balls
Tennis balls came into the modern form after traveling through several modifications. And here are some interesting facts about tennis balls:
- The first company to manufacture tennis balls was Slazenger.
- Slazenger started producing them in the 1880s.
- Slazenger has been the official supplier of tennis balls for Wimbledon since 1902 and still supplies the balls to this day.
- Over 300 million tennis balls are sold worldwide each year.
- Tennis balls can be recycled and used in a variety of ways, including as dog toys or in the manufacturing of carpets and insulation materials.
Related Topic: Why Are Tennis Balls Pressurized? Detailed Explanation
Final Note
The weight and size of tennis balls are regulated by the ITF to maintain consistency in the game. And almost all the other national governing bodies follow those strict guidelines. However, there are some modifications allowed in training sessions.
So, that’s all we need to say about the ideal weight and diameter of tennis balls. If you have any queries, feel free to drop them in the comment section below.
