# Power has replaced grace in modern tennis

> Former tennis star Vijay Amritraj explains how power has replaced grace in modern tennis.
- Title: Power has replaced grace in modern tennis · Sportstar
- Summary: Former tennis star Vijay Amritraj explains how power has replaced grace in modern tennis. Former tennis star Vijay Amritraj says power has replaced grace in…
- Keywords: vijay amritraj, n. ram, atp player council, tennis, serve-and-volley, power, grace, injuries, wimbledon, french clay, sports, replaced
- Source: Sportstar — https://sportstar.thehindu.com/tennis/sportstar-hangout-ft-vijay-amritraj-n-ram-interview-indian-tennis-evolution-best-memories-anecdotes/article71607916.ece
- Author: Nihit Sachdeva
- Published: 2026-10-21T14:27:16+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: vijay amritraj, n. ram, atp player council, tennis, serve-and-volley, power, grace, injuries, wimbledon, french clay, sports
## Vijay Amritraj on tennis evolution
Vijay Amritraj, a Hall of Famer and Padma Bhushan Awardee, reflects on how tennis has changed since his retirement in 1993.
## Serve-and-volley style vanished
Amritraj says the serve-and-volley style, a staple for his contemporaries, has disappeared from modern tennis.
## Wimbledon grass court changes
Amritraj notes Wimbledon grass courts are slower now, causing baseline wear but minimal middle court use.
## Tennis balls six times heavier
Modern tennis balls are six times heavier than when Amritraj played, forcing players to use both hands for backhands.
## Injuries from power play
Amritraj blames current player injuries on power replacing grace, affecting shoulders, elbows, and wrists.
## Hectic calendars for top players
Amritraj says the packed schedule is for the Top 10 players, leaving ATP 250s and 500s for others to survive.
## What happens next
Amritraj calls for balancing player schedules to ensure ATP 250s and 500s remain viable for all players.
## Key takeaway

Former tennis star Vijay Amritraj says power has replaced grace in modern tennis, causing injuries and changing playing styles.