International Journal of Instructional Cases (IJIC)

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Gender Differences and the Junior Tennis Tournament System: The Relationship Between Tournament Opportunities and Development Opportunities

Yahong Chen
Professor, International College, Krirk University, 10220, Thailand.

Abstract

Tournaments play a crucial role in fostering the development of young tennis players. Participation in such events enables players to refine their skills, enhance their physical capabilities, and engage with other talented athletes. However, research highlights notable gender disparities within junior tennis tournaments. These differences manifest in greater attention, higher participation rates, and larger prize pools for boys’ tournaments, thereby offering more developmental opportunities to male players. Conversely, the limited resources and exposure available to women’s tennis hinder the professional growth of female players. To address these inequities, it is essential to ensure equal opportunities for development through equitable access to training resources, professional coaching, and sponsorship support. Integrating tennis education into school curricula could encourage broader participation in tennis events, standardise participation criteria, and create a level playing field for all players. Such measures are fundamental to promoting gender equality and fostering the balanced development of youth tennis.

Keywords:Gender Differences; Junior Tennis Tournament System; Tournament Opportunities; Developmental Opportunities; Level of Competition