TILDEN V. PERRY

Evening Star, Issue 22465, 9 October 1936, Page 15

TILDEN V. PERRY

JACK CRAWFORD’S VIEW ENGLISHMAN IS “ EQUAL OF OLD MASTER " Wallis Myers, in commenting on his ranking list, says he does not yet consider Perry as good as Tilden at his prime. The comparison is a favourite topic among tennis players and critics, and I for one do not agree with Myers, writes Jack Crawford. _ I have had many interesting discussions with Myers on the subject of past and present champions, but neither of us has been able to convince the other. I have seen and played with quite a number of recognised champions, and the best way that I can describe Perry is that he is as good at least as any of them. Many critics still decry Perry on the count of temperament. But Fred, lias improved greatly in this respect, just as he has improved the one or two weak spots in his actual game. I consider Perry a better player in the last English season than at any previous stage of his career. As far as the argument Perry v. Tildeu, is concerned sound reasons may be offered wh-*- the Englishman has equal claims to fame.

In an analysis of their games it must he admitted that Tilden had the superior service, but Perry’s forehand is better. The Englishman’s backhand is not produced in classic fashion, but it is very effective now. It is at least the equal of Tilden’s. Perry would have the advantage in the covering of court and in the volley. His smash is as good.

Tilden must'be credited with a greater variety of strokes,, but whether any of them would worry Perry is open to doubt. The Englishman’s grip is ideal for the playing of low balls, and that was the object of Tilden’s spin shots. Lacoste proved that a steady baseline game would upset Tilden’s, and Perry can be just as safe as Lacoste, with the additional advantage of being able to attack strongly. Tilden may be accounted more consistent than Perry, but it must be remembered that he did not play as much

“ big ” tennis, nor did ho have anything like the same travelling to do. Perry’s ability to take the ball on the rise and follow it to the net rapidly has been a big factor in his success. _ 1 doubt if many of the past champions could take the ball as early without making many errors. Brookes and Coohct were masters of the shot, but 1 do not think they had it under such control as Perry,