So which players are wearing which shoes & why?

Rafael Nadal is sporting the Nike Air Max Courtballistec 4.3 US Open tennis shoes. These shoes are the total package: superbly supportive midsole, durable outsole with a variety of patterns for extra traction and control, rubber toe tip, mesh panels for ventilation, and DragOn 2x technology for a more flexible (and durable) upper. Excellent cushioning in the forefoot and a Max Air unit at the heel for more cushioning and impact protection.

Roger Federer and Victoria Azarenka are wearing the Nike Zoom Vapor 9 Tour tennis shoes. (If Maria Sharapova was playing, she would also be wearing this shoe.) The Vapor 9 has adaptive fit, wrapping the foot from the bottom of the arch to the laces. It's extremely comfortable. Ultra-breathable mesh maximizes air flow. The Lunarlon cushioning offers springy protection, it's soft yet responsive. The extra-durable rubber not only protects but allows this shoe to last, even through strenuous play.

Serena Williams prefers the Nike Air Max Cage US Open tennis shoes. The Drag-On Cage encases the mesh offer for very flexible support. Midfoot stability delivers better lateral support and the Max Air unit provides cushioning and impact protection.