How did you become a stringer?
I started stringing because I was breaking a lot of strings, and I wanted to save money by not paying for re-strings each time. I then started experimenting with different strings as a hobby, and now I’m here.
How did you learn your skills?
I taught myself, and quite honestly made a lot of mistakes starting out. I of course learned from these mistakes and gained the skills that I have now. I still learn new techniques today by talking to the other team members or talking to people who work at shops. It’s really important to ask a lot of questions.
What do you focus on the most when stringing?
I like to focus on consistency and just getting everything out on time. I use the same techniques for the same players, and always make sure to clamp off so the tension remains strong and consistent. These top players can feel minute differences in their string tension, so these points are very important.
Do you have any special techniques to help you string?
I personally try to keep everything simple and time-efficient. But it’s great being in a team like this at the Australian Open because you can look at other stringers and their techniques. You pick up tips here and there, and of course ask questions.
What do you think of the team this year?
We have a very interesting assembly of members once again this year, with a nice variety of stringers from all around the world. While the basics of stringing are the same, techniques vary from country to country, so it’s always unique to see that. Communication with everyone is also excellent.
Do you have any advice to those who want to become a stinger?
Practice by stringing a lot of racquets. A lot. Make a lot of mistakes and learn from them. If you want to string at tournaments, start with small events and help out with whatever you can—even something simple like cutting strings. Not just stringing, but’s important to know all the aspects of preparing racquets for tournaments.
Do you have any advice for amateur players about the importance of stringing?
Change strings on a regular basis, especially polys since a fresh re-string with a poly has great tension. If you’re an amateur player, you should change once every one-and-a-half months or once every two months.
Find a Yonex stringer near you at the official Yonex Stringing Team website.