Today after I breakfasted and did my usual workout I set off for Tennis Point Essen, a large tennis store (think Tennis Express in Houston, then downsize just a bit) here. I was on a mission to buy some of the Dunlop tennis balls used for all the team matches (Dunlop Fort Tournament in a 4-ball metal can). They had them of course at the store…for about 14 euros (around $15 including taxes). No wonder they play with them several times before opening a new can! I also looked at clay court shoes of which the store had a large variety. I found some that fit well but which are also sold in the USA so I’ll buy them there instead of hauling them back with me. The shoes that I really like were sold out in my size unfortunately.

After shopping, I went over to ETUF Essen, had a quick lunch and walked along the Baldeneysee and Ruhr for about 45 minutes in a light rain. Afterwards I played tennis with one of the teaching pros there, Ralf, whom Sabine set me up with. We had a very good hit, then I hit more serves and ran a (very few) wind sprints. It was a nice relaxing but not boring day! We practiced on center court. You can see the indoor building in the background.

Tomorrow I have two hits, which I am looking forward to.