When you think of the fastest ball sports, you may think of cricket or baseball, or even tennis. But that’s not the case. Speed in these sports can change the outcome of the game, demanding split-second reactions and raw power. These sports demand excellent human strength but also the technicality of the ball in order to make some unbreakable records. In this article, we will explore the 4 fastest ball sports in the world and see why they are as fast as they get.
4 Fastest Ball Sports
Jai Alai
Jai Alai originated in Spain and uses a wicker cesta to strike a rock-hard pelota against a wall at speeds exceeding 300km/h, which, by the way, is faster than a Formula 1 car. Players catch and release these balls mid-air, relying completely on their reflexes. The sport’s danger is out of this world since these balls are hard and heavy and have caused several injuries over the years. However, that didn’t stop players from playing it and ultimately making it the fastest ball sport in the world with a top speed of 305.77 km/h.
Squash
Squash, again, isn’t a game that you would generally go for when asked about the fastest ball sport. However, it ranks second in the list with the highest speed clocked at 281km/h. It’s played in a confined court, and its hollow rubber ball may seem harmless but poses extreme power and speed. The sport’s intensity lies in its rapid rallies, which demand explosive strength and outstanding speed. Despite its slower average play speed compared to Jai Alai, it remains a top fastest ball sport in the world.
Tennis
Tennis is a powerhouse of both strength and technique. The sport’s speed peaks during serves, but baseline rallies also often exceed 160km/h. The record for the fastest serve in tennis is held by Sam Groth at 263.4 km/h. However, another fastest serve in an ATP event is held by John Isner at 253 km/h. Players like Serena Williams and Roger Federer show how power mixed with precision and dramatic momentum shifts can result in one of the fastest ball sports.
Baseball
Baseball is one of the common guesses of the fastest ball sports. While the average speed lies at 170km/h, the top speed has been clocked at 197 km/h. This could be possible due to the outstanding physical fitness of players who continue to defy all rules and the mental toughness of athletes who strive to break these records every single day.
