I think the way some players turn it on and off speaks volumes -- no pun intended -- about how it's a ploy and not part of any actual effort. I love both the Williams sisters, but sometimes they yell and sometimes they don't. Sharapova screams long after she's struck the ball -- what's that supposed to be for, if not psychological impact? Start assigning penalties of some sort for this, and you'll see how fast it stops and how little effect it has an anyone's game, because it's a freakin' stunt.

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I also think there's a difference between a "hi-yaaa!" or whatever while you are in the act of hitting the ball, judo-chopping the wooden block, or whatever it is you do that requires some more exertion, and a long, sustained shriek like that Portuguese girl does.

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I've even heard Roger do it after several long sets when serving. I'm sure people are shocked. *shockandawe*

But I guess I only hear Roger because I have musician's ears.

*rolleyes*

There is the issue/question of the general pitch of a female scream. But martial artists have a tendency to do the same thing to force kinetic energy outward and stabilize the body for defense.

But I fully agree that if it were only women doing it that no commentator would have ever brought it up.

*rolleyes*

*again*

*hard*

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melanie hustle also made this really hysterical face that went with the grunt.

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I have not used that DVD in a few weeks, no.

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He does maintain, however, that occasionally, people who complain about the grunting have been known to have "unfortunate accidents."

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In a lot of sports you're encouraged to make noises, though. I was always encouraged to grunt in tae kwon do, and in yoga we always have to do awkward loud breathing.

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[dailycontributor.com]

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