I love the feel of hitting the ball hard, the pleasure of a rally. It is these things that make tennis the delightful game that it is.

I can remember when, as a beginner, I was delighted with any ball as long as it would bounce.

One disco, one soft ball game, one lost love, one gay pride rally at a time.

The angle from which the line and ball are seen makes a tremendous difference in the call, and the player who is inclined to fret inwardly about decisions should realize this.

My feelings, as the last ball travelled over the net, and as I realized that the final match was mine, I cannot describe. I felt that here was a prize for all the games I had ever played.

Balls should be good for at least six sets, and for more for the average player. But if the rallies are long, they do not last as long as this. There is a fuzz on the surface that wears off on the hard court.