He gives his coaches a choice: Teach children under the ITF-designed progression, or use softer balls as they see fit.

WSJ: Is Tennis Getting Too Soft?

It is the second year in a row that the top-ranked woman has missed out on the ITF award -- last year Petra Kvitova headed off Caroline Wozniacki.

CNN: Nadal to make long-awaited tennis return

Many coaches have bristled at the ITF's top-down approach.

WSJ: Is Tennis Getting Too Soft?

His two-year ban was cut in half because the ITF said Odesnik cooperated with its anti-doping program.

CNN: Nadal urges tighter drugs control

It also put the defending champions top of the ITF nation rankings, ending Spain's four-year reign.

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"Our research shows that kids have more fun, that the rallies are longer, and they can play an all-round game, " said Dave Miley, the ITF's executive director of development.

WSJ: Is Tennis Getting Too Soft?

"I am proud to have been named ITF World Champion for the second successive year, " said the 25-year-old.

CNN: Nadal to make long-awaited tennis return

"Before we can comment on doping cases until we have been notified in writing by the Belgian anti-doping agency and that has not happened as yet, " an ITF spokesman said.

BBC: Wickmayer handed missed tests ban

"It means a lot to be named ITF World Champion for the third time, " said Williams, who finished the season with a WTA Tour-best seven titles.

CNN: Nadal to make long-awaited tennis return