Squash players regularly change balls during a match because the more a ball is used, the less elastic it becomes, the less it bounces, and the slower it gets, thus impacting the pace and quality of the game.
A squash ball is a small hollow sphere filled with air at a specific pressure. As it is hit hard against the walls and the racket, this internal pressure gradually decreases. Once the ball loses pressure, you quickly notice that it becomes less reactive. Its bounce becomes soft, which completely changes its usual dynamics: it "drops" faster to the ground and slows down more. Naturally, this alters the playing experience, your timing becomes uncertain, and the rallies less fluid. That's why players regularly opt for a new ball to maintain the energy and dynamism of the initial game.
The squash ball endures significant impacts against the racket and the walls: as a result, its surface wears down gradually. Over time, it loses grip and its ability to be controlled precisely. Throughout the rallies, its texture becomes smooth, less rough, which alters its bounces and trajectory. Players then notice a noticeable loss of accuracy and a different feel—ultimately affecting their playing sensations. A regular change minimizes all of this, allowing players to maintain optimal control.
Players regularly change the ball to adhere to the official rules, which impose specific levels of bounce, softness, and visual condition for the balls used. A worn-out ball offers less bounce and favors one player over another depending on their playing style: regular renewal thus ensures a level playing field. Officials often check the condition of the balls, and if they no longer meet certain well-defined criteria, they must be replaced immediately. It's simple: same ball, same rules, no advantage related to equipment!
The temperature and humidity of the court directly influence the properties of a squash ball. When it is cold, the ball remains harder and bounces less: changing it regularly allows players to always have a warm and responsive ball. Conversely, in a warmer and more humid environment, the ball quickly becomes very soft and slower, also requiring frequent replacement to maintain a stable and controllable bounce. The frequent choice of a new ball allows players to better adapt to the small permanent changes in the environment, maintaining consistent control and avoiding surprises during the match.
A worn ball quickly becomes a hassle to control. When the ball loses its grip, it slides more on the racket's strings, reducing your accuracy and forcing you to constantly adjust your stroke. It's a safety concern, especially because a slippery or damaged ball can go in an unpredictable direction, increasing the risk of injury, particularly with the fast-paced exchanges typical of squash. Regularly changing the ball ensures optimal control and, most importantly, protects players by limiting unexpected trajectories and reactions from a damaged ball.
The average time a ball is used during a professional competition can be less than 15 minutes, with frequent replacements ensuring fair and consistent play throughout the match.
Before each official competition, referees test the bounce of a selection of balls to ensure they strictly meet the official standards for bounce and internal pressure.
Some balls used at a very high level are kept for only a few rallies, as even a slight alteration can significantly affect the trajectory, speed, and playing conditions.
The squash ball regularly reaches speeds exceeding 250 km/h during professional strikes. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the ball is in good condition for optimal control and enhanced safety.
Indeed, the colder a squash ball is, the harder it is and the worse it bounces. As it heats up during play, the internal pressure increases, thereby improving the bounce and the overall performance of the ball.
The official rules stipulate that the squash ball should be changed when it no longer meets certain gameplay criteria. Although replacement is not systematically done at regular intervals, referees or players must replace a damaged ball, one that shows excessive wear, or one that has lost its optimal qualities in order to ensure fair playing conditions.
The average lifespan of a squash ball depends on its usage, the level of play, and environmental conditions. Generally, a ball used frequently in competition may need to be replaced every hour, while for moderate recreational play, it can last several matches.
Sure! Here’s the translation: Yes, there are different types of balls designed for various levels of play. The balls with two yellow dots are intended for advanced players, those with a red or blue dot for intermediate players, and the balls without a dot or with a white dot for beginners, thus providing appropriate levels of bounce and speed.
A squash ball is considered worn out or too degraded if it becomes smooth to the touch, significantly loses its bounce, shows cracks, or visibly deteriorates in its external structure.
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