Aoi Ito is a creative GENIUS (伊藤あおい) | Tennis Talent Spotlight скачать в хорошем качестве

Aoi Ito is a creative GENIUS (伊藤あおい) | Tennis Talent Spotlight

Aoi Ito is a 20 years old, fast rising Japanese tennis player known for her unorthodox style that emphasizes creativity and tactical intelligence over raw power. Currently ranked World No. 126, Ito had her breakthrough performance at WTA Osaka in 2024 where she made semifinal as a qualifier. Along the way, she claimed victories over former World No. 4 Sofia Kenin, World No. 29 Elisabetta Cocciaretto, and World No. 82 Emina Bektas, showcasing her ability to compete against top-tier players despite her unconventional playing style. Ito's Strengths Shot Variety: Ito is a master of disrupting opponents’ rhythm with her variety of shots and spins. She's very adept in executing drop shots, lobs, and her signature forehand slices, which she utilizes frequently in both offensive and defensive situations, and allows her to control the game's tempo. Exceptional Net Play: With impressive instincts and a natural touch, Ito’s net game is among the best for her ranking. Ito often employs tactics like serve and volley, rushing the net after her backhand approach shots, or sneaking in following a deep lob. Her volleys are precise and skillfully angled, and she’s even displayed ambidexterity by switching to her left hand for a better position to make certain volleys. Intelligence and Court Awareness: Ito’s strategic mind is a key asset. Her ability to anticipate her opponents’ moves allows her to position herself effectively and exploit weaknesses. Her tactical awareness helps her predict and outmaneuver more physically dominant players. Ito's Weaknesses Lack of Power: Ito significantly lacks in physical power. This limits her ability to hit through opponents or finish points quickly, especially from her forehand, and leaves her vulnerable to being overpowered in extended rallies against aggressive baseline players. Ito also slice returns majority of serves to her forehand, which can be predicted and exposed by high level opponents. Movement and Balance Issues: Ito’s footwork and balance are areas for improvement. She can be quite slow and clunky in getting to balls, often hits shots off-balance and has had frequent falls during matches—sometimes resulting in injuries. While she’s agile, her lateral movement lacks explosiveness, making it difficult for her to recover wide shots effectively. Serve Speed: Although her serve is precise, it lacks the pace to trouble opponents. Aggressive returners often capitalize on this, attacking her serves constantly and putting her on the back foot early in points. Tennis Talent Scout’s Potential Rating: 8.5/10 Despite her physical limitations, Aoi Ito is a challenging and frustrating opponent for most WTA players and has the potential to be a top 50 player.