As the world of tennis gears up for the festive season, finding the perfect gift for the tennis enthusiast in your life can be a daunting task. However, this year’s best offering comes in the form of insightful and engaging books that dive deep into the lives and strategies of some of the greatest players in the sport. Highlighting key releases from New Chapter Press could provide just the right inspiration for your holiday gift-giving endeavors.
One notable title is “Pete Sampras: Greatness Revisited,” penned by acclaimed writer and tennis analyst Steve Flink. Released to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Sampras’s inaugural Grand Slam victory at the U.S. Open in 1990, this book revisits the remarkable career of the American tennis icon. During his retirement in 2003, Sampras held the record with 14 major singles titles, a figure that remained unmatched until the rise of contemporaries such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic. Flink’s narrative serves not only to celebrate Sampras’s achievements but also to place them in the context of today’s evolving game.
Another exhilarating addition to any tennis library is “Juan Martin del Potro: The Gentle Giant” by Sebastian Torok. Del Potro, who captured the hearts of many with his triumphant 2009 U.S. Open win against Federer, faced a barrage of injuries that challenged his career trajectory. The book details his journey from rising star to a beloved figure in tennis, highlighting personal victories and struggles, including his three surgeries on his wrist. Torok’s recounting of del Potro’s comeback, including a silver medal at the Rio Olympics in 2016 and leading Argentina to a Davis Cup win, paints a poignant picture of resilience that will resonate with fans.
Completing the trio of noteworthy releases is the reissue of Althea Gibson’s autobiography, “I Always Wanted To Be Somebody.” Originally published in 1960, this compelling narrative chronicles her remarkable life from a challenging upbringing in Harlem to breaking barriers in tennis by winning Wimbledon and the U.S. Championships. New Chapter Press has made this inspirational story accessible once again, ensuring that it reaches a new generation of readers. The collaboration with the Althea Gibson Community Tennis Association also allows for a portion of the proceeds to support tennis initiatives.
Lastly, tennis aficionados may also be intrigued by “The Secrets of Spanish Tennis 2.0,” authored by Chris Lewit. This recent release taps into the unparalleled success of Spanish tennis, exploring the distinctive training philosophies and methodologies that have produced titans like Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz. Lewit draws from nearly two decades of experience and research among top Spanish coaching figures, revealing many of the “secret” drills that contribute to Spain’s dominance on the tennis circuit.
With these compelling selections, New Chapter Press presents various avenues to explore the world of tennis through the eyes of celebrated figures both past and present. Each title not only offers a glimpse into the sport’s rich history but also serves as a reminder of the complex narratives woven into the lives of its athletes. For those still in search of a present that will be cherished well beyond the holidays, these books embody the spirit of tennis—resilience, inspiration, and greatness.
