Game, Set, AI - How Tennis is benefiting from Artificial Intelligence
- Chris Howell
- Jun 21
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 24
Imagine stepping onto a tennis court with Serena Williams or Novak Djokovic giving you tips in real-time. Sounds like a fantasy, right? Thanks to Artificial Intelligence (AI), this kind of advanced coaching is becoming a reality for players at all levels.
AI is quietly revolutionizing tennis, not just for the pros but also for weekend warriors and aspiring champions. At its heart, tennis is data-rich—every serve, swing, and sprint produces countless data points. Traditionally, most of these details went unnoticed. But AI systems, armed with computer vision and deep learning, now track everything from ball trajectory to player movement, turning subtle details into actionable insights.
Take the example of modern performance analytics platforms. These use high-speed cameras and machine learning algorithms to monitor how the ball moves—its speed, spin, trajectory, and the exact point it hits the racket or court. This technology creates intuitive visualizations, highlighting areas for players to refine their technique and strategy.
Biomechanical analysis is another exciting area where AI shines. Systems now accurately capture 3D models of player movements using calibrated cameras around the court. By analyzing joint angles, muscle activation, and even subtle body movements, these tools not only help improve performance but also proactively predict potential injury risks, enabling players to train smarter and safer.
AI also brings new life to coaching. Platforms like SportAI and PlaySight provide instant, precise feedback without needing pricey, specialized equipment. They compare amateur swings to the world’s best, offering personalized recommendations on how to adjust technique instantly. This 24/7 availability accelerates improvement and fosters better muscle memory.
Professional tours are embracing AI as well. Systems like Hawk-Eye, an electronic line-calling system, have replaced human judgment with millimeter-perfect accuracy. Introduced first in tournaments like the US Open and Wimbledon, these technologies are swiftly becoming the norm across professional tennis, removing human errors and increasing fairness and excitement.
Speaking of Wimbledon, the Championships are just around the corner, making it the perfect time to explore how AI is set to enhance this iconic tournament once again. Advanced graphics, real-time analytics, and immersive AI-driven broadcasts (such as IBM's Wimbledon "Match Chat" feature) engage viewers with instant, detailed insights and personalized content. Fans can now even design virtual tennis courts or create customized viewing experiences thanks to immersive AI-powered platforms.
Even tennis equipment is getting smarter. AI-designed rackets, like the futuristic Hìtëkw racket, combine generative AI design with cutting-edge 3D printing, promising lighter, stronger, and better-performing gear. Companies like Babolat and HEAD already offer smart rackets fitted with sensors tracking swings, speed, and spin, providing players instant feedback directly on their smartphones.
This AI revolution in tennis aligns perfectly with Mercia AI’s mission: empowering individuals and communities to harness AI responsibly and effectively. Tennis, once seen as purely physical and intuitive, is rapidly becoming a showcase for how AI can transform performance, fairness, and enjoyment.
From local courts to Grand Slam stadiums, AI is reshaping tennis into a more precise, engaging, and accessible sport. At Mercia AI, we're excited about this transformation—and the potential AI has to revolutionize not just tennis but numerous aspects of everyday life and business.
Ready to explore how AI can enhance your own performance or business? Mercia AI is here to guide your next move. Game, set, match.
