Why was Chris Evert so good on Clay (won 7 French Opens) when most Americans struggle on it?

Answer 1

I think she grew up playing on it.

Answer 2

US women don't especially struggle on clay. Both Capriati and S. Williams have won the French. Evert grew up playing club tennis, so she was familar with clay. Clay requires a more patient mind set and point construction rather than raw power. There is no reason women from the US would be disadvantaged there.

Answer 3

A couple of reason. First, we have practiclly ZERO experience of clay, We love our Hard courts. Second, the slide factor, slide comes with experience, which we dont have. There is also bounce, ball does not bounce as high and when it does bounce it slows right down, which it hard to get the timing right for. And it is a much more defensive surface, defence = offence on clay, that is hard to understand epacally when winners look SO much cooler (and that is what America is all about)

Answer 4

It comes down to Chris' style of play. She was very good at anticipating her opponents shots. She was patient and resourceful, even in situations in which she trailed her opponent. Finally, if you watch closely players often use the clay as an advantage to "slide" into shots that normally would be unhittable on other surfaces. Chris was exceptional at this. She has remarked more than once that she loved playing there, enjoyed the atmosphere of Roland Garros, and that helped to keep her relaxed.

Answer 5

Chris Evert's match record on clay is impressive, but I don't think she would have her record if she were to start out her career today. The competition is stronger than in her era.

Answer 6

if Im right clay was semt in to murder chris but he couldent just joking