Injuries in Tennis Players Related to Demographic Characteristics and Playing Preferences

INTRODUCTION: In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the relationship between player demographic characteristics (age, gender, etc.) or playing preferences (court preference, grip position, backhand type, etc.) and injuries in tennis players.
METHODS: The questionnaire created to study and to investigate the relationship between injuries and these parameters was answered by 198 people who play tennis at club level, play tennis at professional level, or are tennis coaches.
RESULTS: In our study, it was found that the incidence of ankle injuries among female tennis players was statistically significantly higher than among male players. In addition, it was found that elbow injuries were more common among players aged 40 and older and that this association was statistically significant. A significant association was identified between grip type and elbow injuries, with elbow injuries observed more frequently in players using the continental and western grips. In contrast, no statistically significant association was found between grip type and wrist or hand/finger injuries. Similarly, no significant association was found between court preference and training frequency and the incidence of injuries.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This study examined the relationships between demographic characteristics and playing preferences and injury patterns among tennis players. In particular, it was determined that grip position is associated with elbow injuries, ankle injuries are more common among female players, and advanced age is a significant factor in elbow injuries. These findings may contribute to the development of targeted injury prevention strategies for tennis players.

Keywords: Demographics, grip positions, tennis injuries.