UTS presents a unique challenge for players with its scoring system of four quarters of eight minutes each. This format demands players to be at their peak performance right from the start, requiring them to hit full speed immediately and sustain it for four quarters in a row. This makes UTS a combination of sprinting and marathon, posing different challenges compared to the regular Tour.
Players, like Stefanos Tsitsipas, acknowledge the physical demands of UTS, describing it as extremely physically demanding. The format eliminates first serves and reduces the time between points to 15 seconds, resulting in longer rallies and increased physical effort. Players are required to display consistency and quick recovery between points, making it a fast-paced and intense cardio session.
The rallies in UTS typically last between four and eight shots, significantly longer than in traditional tennis matches. This, along with limited recovery time between points, increases the players’ heart rate and overall intensity of the game. Although not as long as a five-set match, UTS still offers a significant cardio workout for the players.
Players like Corentin Moutet and Gael Monfils emphasize the intensity and physical demands of UTS, highlighting the need for quick recovery and strong cardio abilities. UTS presents a unique opportunity for players to work on their physical fitness in a different way than traditional tennis matches.
