The US Open tennis tournament, part of the Grand Slam, will end in New York on Sunday. VIDEOGRAPHIC
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00:00 The type of material used on a tennis court can vastly affect gameplay.
00:11 Three main types dominate the pro circuit.
00:13 Hard courts, featured at the Australian and US Open, are perfect for an attacking game.
00:18 Courts consist of synthetic or acrylic layers on top of concrete or asphalt.
00:23 This creates a rigid uniform surface which means the ball bounces more predictably than
00:27 on grass or clay.
00:29 Exchanges are fast because little energy is absorbed by the surface, although it can be
00:34 hard on the knees and ankles, meaning injuries are more likely.
00:39 Clay courts, as seen at the French Open, have a slower surface that produces longer rallies.
00:44 The most common form is red clay made from brick.
00:47 The top layer allows players to execute controlled slides, although it's not practical for use
00:52 in high rainfall areas.
00:53 While a quick shower won't interrupt play, clay courts can take a while to dry out after
00:58 a rainstorm.
00:59 Defensive players prefer this surface, which allows players to vary their effects on the
01:03 ball, particularly topspin.
01:08 Grass courts, as used at Wimbledon, are generally seen as one of the fastest surfaces and favour
01:12 the serve and volley style of play.
01:16 This often produces the shortest matches.
01:18 It's a cool and glare-free surface, particularly responsive to slices, although wears out quickly.
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