And we thought we would take you into the dungeons under Stadium Court to meet the professional stringers who apply the latest technology in string and machinery to carefully prepare racquets to the precise individual specifications of over 300 players attending the Nasdaq-100 tournament.

That they do so with the utmost care and precision - in spite of the strong possibility of them being thrown and smashed onto nets, courts and fences shortly afterwards - says a lot for the professionalism of these dedicated technicians.

At the Nasdaq-100 Open, stringing services are being provided by Luxilon - Belgian manufacturers of a range of strings that are fast becoming the string of choice for many of the world's top men and women players.

Today's featured stringer is

Albert Lee

Albert is from Washington, D.C. and has been a stringer for 20+ years. It started because, "I just couldn't find anyone who could do it right  - and, as an engineer, I was arrogant enough to think I could figure out how to do it better than anyone else".

"I have traveled the world stringing racquets for top players. I love the camaraderie that you find working with other stringers. There is always a good atmosphere and always something new to learn".

"The 18 hour days are just a bonus..."