Assessment of Tennis Timing Using an Acoustic Detection System

Timing in tennis plays a key role in determining the effectiveness of shots and, ultimately, the outcome of matches. Traditional methods of assessing the game’s timing often rely on subjective observations or video motion-tracking systems. In this study, we explored alternative methods in the literature and adopted an approach that uses a simple acoustic detection system to assess some of the major temporal components of the game, including the rhythm of shots and the timing of their execution. The proposed system following filtering of the audio signal, allows us to quantify the time lapse between the impact of the ball with the players' racket, or with the playing surface, and we can accurately quantify these components. Early experiments were conducted with professional and amateur tennis players performing a series of strokes under controlled conditions, both rally and basket drills. The results indicate a high degree of accuracy and reliability in timing assessment using the proposed system. In addition, the system demonstrates potential applications in player training, performance analysis, and injury prevention.