Purpose To investigate the training and development process of a multiple-Grand-Slam finalist. Methods A mixed-methods case-study design was used to capture the quantitative and qualitative aspects related to the training and successful development process. We used a 3-step data-collection process and pragmatic analyses of (1) training history based on logs, plans, and questionnaires; (2) in-depth semistructured interviews with the player`s head coach/father, physical coach, and team administrator/mother; and (3) systematic quality assurance through negotiation among researchers and all key informants, including the player. Results The player`s exceptional performance level was achieved by a progressive, nonlinear increase in annual training load during childhood and early youth, stabilizing at 800 sessions and 1250 to 1300 hours per year at the age of 19. The annual tennis-specific training plateaued at ~750 hours from the age of 15, and 60 to 80 matches were played in most of the analyzed years. Point-play accounted for approximately 50% of the total amount of specific tennis training, clearly ahead of ground strokes (~30%), serve/return (~15%), and smash/volley (~5%). Physical-conditioning hours increased 5-fold from 12 to 19 years, before stabilizing at ~500 hours at senior age. Key success factors included the athlete`s multidimensional sports talent, discipline, and inner drive; a highly dedicated father and tennis-enthusiastic family; and strong support from a complementary and interdisciplinary performance team. Conclusion This study provides novel information regarding the training and development process for a world-leading tennis player, providing a point of departure for the development of future talents.
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