Why do tennis players grunt? Novak Djokovic docked point in Wimbledon semi-final victory against Jan
It's Wimbledon final weekend but the issue of grunting remains controversial as it threatens to overshadow the skill on the court.
Novak Djokovic was docked a point during his semi-final victory over Jannik Sinner for an extended grunt.
Umpire Richard Haigh stopped the point mid-rally in the second set after determining that the 23-time Grand Slam winner distracted Sinner.
"I felt nervous after that call, but I managed to regroup," Djokovic said after reaching Sunday's men's Wimbledon final.
"It's probably the first time it's happened to me."
John McEnroe said the decision was a "horrible, horrible call" but the question remains - why do players grunt and do they need to do it?
Read more on tennis
The soundtrack to a tennis game has been cited as turning off casual fans but there are multiple reasons behind the excessive groan.
The most common reason behind grunting is the relaxation of the muscles as players play their shots.
Most fitness instructors advise exhaling during a workout and elite tennis stars can improve their breathing and rhythm while playing.
Other factors include increasing power on their shots, letting off steam but also cynically a tool in distracting opponents which was what Djokovic was accused of doing.
Most read in Sport
Former Wimbledon star Maria Sharapova is infamous for her loud grunting but she claimed it was purely down to habit.
Sharapova said: “The information going towards coaches and academies that are developing talent from a young age is teaching them a certain breathing technique.
“Because when you start something from a young age and continue it, it’s a habit— whether you do grunt or don’t grunt.
“The WTA created a plan. That’s the smart way to go about it, rather than like taking someone’s forehand and grip in the middle of their career and telling them to change it.”
talkSPORT BET Offer Of The Day
Bet £20 Get £20 In Free Bets - CLAIM HERE
18+ New customers only. Opt in & bet £20 on any sport at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 2x £10 Free Bets on any sports market. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments only. T&Cs apply. begambleaware.org | Please gamble responsibly
ncG1vNJzZmiskaG4tLzOq6tnm5%2BifLS8zquraKyVo7uqv45qa3JwZmx9cMPHsmStnZ6jtrR5z6WYsp2iqHqovtSnq2amn6uurHnDo6akp6aesG7DyKaZpZ2UpLtw