Diachronic analysis of match play sequences between Djokovic and Alcaraz at Wimbledon
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v83.119416Keywords:
Diachronic analysis, lag sequential analysis, match analysis , observational methodology , technical–tactical actions , tennisAbstract
Background/Objective: The present study, conducted within the framework of observational methodology, analyses match play sequences in a diachronic manner through intra-sessional tracking of the actions performed by Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz in the 2023 and 2024 Wimbledon finals.
Methodology: An observational tool was designed to record technical-tactical behaviours in their contextualised form. Data recording and coding were carried out using LINCE Plus software. The data structure follows the internal logic of singles tennis and is organised according to the sequential order of behaviours that con-stitute the technical–tactical action sequence of each point. Reliability was assessed through intra and inter-observer agreement using Cohen’s Kappa coefficient. A retrospective Lag Sequential Analysis was conducted, taking as criterion behaviours those incorporating information related to the outcome of each point sequence.
Results: The results allow for the characterisation of how both players build, maintain, or lose technical–tactical initiative throughout the point, based on the analysis of: a) winning points; b) the generation of errors in the opponent; c) aces; and d) double faults.
Conclusions: The detection of sequential play patterns allows for a deeper understanding of the internal logic of elite tennis, providing relevant insights into the technical-tactical behaviours that players dis-play during real match play.
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