Influence of Category and Gender in Temporary Variables in Young Elite Tennis

Background: Understanding the structure of the game during developmental stages makes it possible to design training sessions adapted to the variable characteristics of play. Methods: In this study, we selected 24 matches played by right-handed players in the semifinals and finals of U-12 (Open Super 12–Auray) and U-14 (Les Petits As) competitions. The temporal structure was analyzed by examining total match duration, average duration per set and per game, point duration, and percentage of active time. The formal structure was assessed through the number of sets per match, games per set, points per game, shots per point, and hitting frequency. The research followed a structured, external, and non-participatory observational methodology. Results: The findings revealed no gender-based differences. When grouped by category, however, significant differences emerged: U-12 players exhibited longer point duration (p < 0.001) and a higher number of shots per point (p < 0.001), whereas U-14 players showed higher hitting frequency (p < 0.008). Conclusions: We conclude that the observed changes in game intensity align with prior tactical studies and the expected maturation processes of puberty.