ATP Tour trials new tennis ball change rule at Challenger event

The ATP Tour will trial a significant change to tennis ball regulations next month at a Challenger event. Current rules stipulate that players begin matches with new balls, which are then changed after seven games and every nine thereafter. The upcoming trial seeks to adjust this cadence to a change after five games, followed by changes every seven games. Players like Daniil Medvedev, Alexander Zverev, and Taylor Fritz have been critical of the balls used, citing performance issues. The outcome of this trial could lead to enhanced ball quality and potentially increased ball usage at tournaments if adopted.

• 9:16 AMYahoo Sports — A tennis ball rule change trial that could have a big impact on the ATP Tour