Episode 278

HOW ANALYTICS SHAPE TENNIS

In this episode

In this episode of the Great Base Tennis Podcast, Steve Smith welcomes USTA performance analytics expert Mat Cloer and coach Dave Anderson for a deep dive into the USTA’s new coaching initiative and its effort to strengthen education and certification for American tennis teachers. Cloer explains his role inside Player Development, using Hawkeye data, video analysis, and match statistics to help players and coaches better understand patterns in serving, returning, transition play, and net effectiveness. The discussion highlights how analytics are becoming a core tool in shaping modern training.

Episode 278’s conversation also explores Cloer’s time around the tour and his close work with Ben Shelton, along with insights from Billie Jean King Cup team events. Steve, Mat, and Dave connect high-level trends back to junior development—emphasizing doubles, all-court skills, proper fundamentals, and a genuine love for competing. They underline a clear message: the best players blend strong character with strong information, and the data only matters when it elevates teaching, learning, and long-term development.

show notes

In this episode of the GreatBase Tennis Podcast, co-hosts Steve Smith and Dave Anderson welcome USTA senior manager Mat Cloer for an in-depth discussion on coaching education, performance analytics, and the evolving landscape of modern tennis. The conversation begins with an overview of the USTA’s recent initiatives, including expanded liability insurance for certified coaches and renewed efforts to strengthen U.S. coaching pathways. These developments aim to make the USTA’s education programs a more appealing and comprehensive option for professionals across the country.

Mat outlines his dual responsibilities, balancing high-level performance analytics with hands-on coaching for players from the junior level through the professional ranks. He highlights the work of key USTA leaders such as Craig Morris and Megan Rose, emphasizing their commitment to revitalizing coaching education and providing clearer developmental structures for American coaches and players.

The discussion transitions into the expanding influence of data in player development. Mat explains how modern tools—such as Hawkeye and advanced video systems—allow coaches to analyze match footage with precision, breaking down shot patterns, tendencies, and performance metrics. This data-driven approach provides insights that enhance decision-making, training efficiency, and competitive strategy.

As the episode progresses, Steve, Dave, and Mat examine trends shaping contemporary professional tennis. They discuss how today’s players are leveraging increased ball speed, spin, and athleticism, referencing rising stars like Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz as examples of the sport’s physical and tactical evolution. These shifts highlight the growing importance of fitness, movement patterns, and adaptable game styles in player development.

The conversation then turns to junior tennis, where Mat underscores the value of strong all-court skills and doubles foundations. He shares insights from events such as the Billie Jean King Cup, noting the competitive grit required to succeed on the world stage. The hosts emphasize that fostering passion, competitiveness, and emotional resilience in young players is just as essential as teaching technical skills.

Throughout the episode, connections are drawn between historical tennis education models and today’s modern coaching methods. The group reflects on how combining traditional principles with contemporary analytics can create effective pathways for future talent. Despite the sport’s evolution, they stress that mastery of fundamentals remains the backbone of long-term success.

The episode concludes with shared reflections on influential experiences within the tennis world, reinforcing that while technology and training continue to advance, the core values of passion, discipline, and lifelong learning remain timeless.