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US Tennis Needs More 'Insane Parents'

By Harry Kimball,  Newser Staff

Posted Jun 2, 2009 4:30 PM CDT

(Newser) – The next US tennis star will not be the product of a national training push, Huan Hsu writes for Slate, but rather of “crazy tennis parents.” The United States Tennis Association plans to spend $100 million in the next 10 years, but that’s not how it’ll find the next Andre Agassi or Pete Sampras. “What separates the best players from their peers isn’t superior teaching,” Hsu writes. “It’s maniacal devotion.”

Tennis dads might not be nice, but they are effective. “The approaches of these tennis tyrants may have been objectionable,” Hsu writes. “Nevertheless, these parents had a plan, and they stuck to it.” And it works better than the USTA’s approach, which hasn’t produced a Grand Slam champ since 1986. The easily teachable sport means parents “can read a book, watch a few videos, and give capable instruction.” And ensure victory.

Venus Williams.
Venus Williams.   (AP Photo)
Richard Williams and an unidentified woman watch a second round match between Spain's Virginia Ruano Pascual and Serena Williams.
Richard Williams and an unidentified woman watch a second round match between Spain's Virginia Ruano Pascual and Serena Williams.   (AP Photo)
Andre Agassi.
Andre Agassi.   (AP Photo)
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The expectations they put on their children, however misguided or unrealistic, originated from a resolute belief in their ability to become champions. - Huan Hsu

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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 6 comments
Reader68389796
Jun 4, 2009 3:04 AM CDT
It's a shame you are right they play against the same country that make them who they are. Yes Sharapova did play for Russia against the United States! Shame of You Maria!
Reader68389796
Jun 4, 2009 2:58 AM CDT
I agree with the writer 100%. The USTA will not and cannot produce America next Grand Slam Winner even with all the money they hayve. The problem they are too biased and still run a country club type setting, so it will be the 'crazy' parent that will give us America's next Grand Slam winner. The only problem is that these talented kids need money and sponsorship to make it in the big leagues. The problem is our American sponsors prefer to go to Europe and bring these europeans over here, train them, feed them give them sponsorship, then they go play Fed Cup for their country. Does the name Sharapova mean any thing to you guys! That's the problem we are facing here in America!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SBS
Jun 3, 2009 12:35 PM CDT
Could be parents who see a way to a lot of money.

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