Lois Boisson’s Tennis Comeback: Virtual Reality Gives Her the Edge 🎾
Neuro-Visual Training Fuels Lois Boisson’s Tennis Comeback
Lois Boisson’s tennis comeback is a testament to resilience, a word she has tattooed above her right elbow. This tattoo symbolizes the arduous yet rewarding journey she has undertaken. Importantly, Boisson’s return to tennis prominence is not just about physical recovery but also about embracing innovative techniques like neuro-visual training. For more insights into her career and the broader context of women’s tennis, check out the official WTA website.
Because Boisson has faced significant hurdles, her story is all the more inspiring. After clinching a WTA 125 title in St Malo, France, last April, she faced a major setback: tearing her ACL just before her Grand Slam debut at Roland Garros. Consequently, this injury required rigorous ACL injury rehabilitation, which she has handled remarkably.
Neuro-Visual Training and Virtual Reality: A Game Changer
Following her recovery, Boisson knew that small advantages could be game-changers in professional tennis. Therefore, when her fitness coach, Sebastien Durand, introduced her to neuro-visual training, she eagerly embraced it to boost her performance. “It’s hard to explain,” Boisson shared, “but it’s a combination of visual exercises connecting the brain with the eyes. After my surgery, doing that helped me come back faster.”
The training incorporates exercises like sight tests, catching a ball with one eye covered, buzzer reaction tests, and even virtual reality sports training. These techniques have significantly improved her reactivity, making these advanced methods feel natural. To understand the principles and benefits of this training method, read more in this article from the National Institutes of Health.
Road to Roland Garros 2024 Wild Card
Durand, who also works with Grigor Dimitrov, collaborated with orthoptist Angela Ragaigne to develop these drills. “Until the eye and visual care are healthy, it’s hard to build performance,” he noted. Given that 80% of information athletes gather comes from vision, they have crafted a tailored neuro-visual treatment specifically adapted to each athlete’s needs.
Boisson is now gearing up to face Jessica Pegula in her first Grand Slam fourth round. Notably, this achievement comes after playing only two events since her return, with a significant win against Harriet Dart in Rouen. Roland Garros has honored her with a wild card for 2024, and Boisson, now ranked No. 361, has more than justified their confidence this week.
Embracing Resilience and Success 🌟
Boisson’s journey is a true example of resilience and mental toughness in sports. Her ability to play freely, without the weight of expectations, has allowed her to shine on the clay courts with her heavy topspin groundstrokes. For more on the importance of resilience in sports, visit this resource.
Playing against fellow French wild card Elsa Jacquemot was a nerve-wracking experience, yet Boisson triumphed with a 6-3, 0-6, 7-5 victory. “The atmosphere was incredible. I’m really happy to have come through that match,” she said. Achieving the second week in Paris, Boisson has exceeded her expectations and continues to leave no stone unturned in her pursuit of success.
Lois Boisson’s tennis comeback is a compelling story of innovation, resilience, and triumph. With her eye on Roland Garros 2024, she’s set to inspire many more with her incredible journey.
