International Tennis Hall of Famer Gigi Fernández, a 17-time major doubles champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, brought her “Gigi Method” instructional clinic to The Alaska Club East in Anchorage on July 19. The program focuses on high-percentage doubles strategies, including net aggression and court positioning, as part of Fernández’s broader goal to conduct clinics in every U.S. state.
The Gigi Method: Strategic Doubles Play
Fernández designed her clinic as a refined, accessible version of the professional-level tactics she employed during her career. According to Fernández, the method is “tried and tested” and adaptable for players ranging from recreational intermediates to competitive enthusiasts. The instruction emphasizes specific movement patterns and communication strategies essential for effective partnership on the court.
Participants like Jodi Arnold, who traveled from Juneau, noted that the clinic provided new perspectives on shot selection. “It’s all about positioning and attacking the net,” Arnold said. For players like Doug Henie, the focus on partner coordination offered a practical way to improve communication during matches. “It’s about being able to move around and work with your partner so that your partner knows where you are,” Henie said.
Pro Tip: Improving your doubles game often comes down to “creating chaos” for opponents through net pressure. Coach Paul Hemry of South Anchorage High School noted that Fernández’s approach builds on fundamental concepts by teaching players how to disrupt the opposing team’s rhythm.
Expanding Reach Through Grassroots Clinics
Fernández has conducted clinics for nine years, reaching approximately 4,000 people in person and another 10,000 through online platforms. She describes this phase of her career as an “unexpected second career.” While she initially intended to save Alaska for a final trip, a soccer tournament for her children in Seattle provided the logistical opening to include Anchorage in her itinerary.
Jimmy Kayongo, the longtime tennis director at The Alaska Club, facilitated the event. He emphasized that hosting a player of Fernández’s caliber—who secured 14 of her 17 major titles alongside Natasha Zvereva between 1992 and 1997—is a rare opportunity for the local tennis community. “Obviously, you don’t get to see this type of instruction, and we’re appreciative that she took the time to come out here,” Kayongo said.
The Future of Tennis Instruction
By modifying professional techniques for varying skill levels, players like Fernández are bridging the gap between elite performance and recreational play.
Did you know? Gigi Fernández holds a career Grand Slam in doubles, meaning she has won the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Gigi Method? It is a set of doubles tennis strategies derived from Fernández’s professional career, modified to be effective for players of various skill levels.
- Who can participate in these clinics? While the Anchorage session focused on adults, the concepts are designed to be applicable to younger competitive players as well.
- Where does Gigi Fernández teach? She is currently working toward a goal of hosting clinics in every U.S. state.
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