MARCH NEWSLETTER

The countdown to Rome has started: May 11th – 15th

From Monty Python's Life of Brian
​So... "What have the Romans ever done for us then? Apart from the sanitation, the medicine, education, wine, public order, irrigation, roads, a fresh water system, and public health, what have the Romans ever done for us?" 
In modern times I would argue that the Romans have given us the best clay court tournament in the world.

Here are some of the main reasons why it’s so special:
1. One of the most beautiful venues in tennisThe tournament takes place in the historic sports complex of Foro Italico in Rome.
What makes it unique:

• Marble statues line the walkways around the courts
• Classical Italian architecture surrounds the stadiums
• The famous Stadio Pietrangeli court is literally built inside a statue garden

Many players call it one of the most visually stunning places to play tennis.
2. The best clay-court warm-up before Roland-GarrosThe Italian Open is one of the final and most important clay tournaments before the French Open.
Why players value it:

• Conditions are similar to Paris
• It attracts almost every top player from the ATP Tour and WTA Tour
• Winning here is considered a huge indicator of Roland-Garros form.

3. Passionate Italian crowdsItalian fans bring incredible energy:

• Loud and emotional support
• Packed stadiums for local players
• Night sessions with a football-like atmosphere

When Italians like Jannik Sinner or Matteo Berrettini play, the atmosphere becomes electric.
4. Rome itself elevates the tournamentFew tournaments are located in a city as iconic as Rome.
Players and fans can enjoy:

• Ancient sites like the Colosseum
• Italian food and culture
• Warm Mediterranean spring weather

The combination of world-class tennis + historic city makes the experience unforgettable.

In short: the Italian Open blends elite clay-court tennis, a historic setting, passionate crowds, and the culture of Rome—making it one of the most beloved tournaments outside the Grand Slams.
We only have a few spaces left on our Rome Masters Tennis Trip May 11–15 - 

What's included (in addition to Ian and Laura's expertise 24/7)

• 4 nights at the 4 star River Chateau Hotel including breakfast
• Welcome drink at hotel on evening of 11th May - 6-7pm
• 2 hours group coaching each morning 9 - 11am on 12th, 13th & 14th May at a local club
• Grand Stand Arena tickets (stadium court) 12th May, with Centre Court tickets (Campo Centrale) for the afternoon sessions on 13th & 14th May. Tickets also include access to the grounds from start to end of play each day, including all practice and outside courts.

Full details at this link HERE

​To lag or not to lag that is the question?
I see a lot of information online about using lag on the forehand. Is lag the key to improving racket head speed?On a good forehand, racket lag usually happens naturally when:

• you load and rotate well
• your hand leads
• the racket head stays back briefly
• then it releases through contact

That lag can help with racket-head speed and topspin. But trying to “manufacture” extra lag often causes:

• late contact
• wristy swings
• loss of control
• arm or wrist strain

Best approach:

• focus on the unit turn, spacing, and leading with the body and hand
• keep the wrist relaxed, not floppy
• let the lag appear as a result of good mechanics

So: use it, but don’t force it. Natural lag is good. Artificial lag is usually harmful.
A simple cue is: turn, lead with the hand, then release through the ball.
​
Or even better come on a
Tuscan Tennis Holiday
and we'll show you how to do it!

All comments welcome - [email protected]

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