More powerful groundies: Fognini or Nishikori?

[thomasferrett]

They're equal size, and both are said to hit hard for their limited weight and leverages?

So which one is more powerful?

Also, both of them have quite compact forehands, so it's not like they're even maximizing their leverages. So, how do they generate the racket head speed? Are they just very strong or explosive? If so, do you reckon they'd be able to throw a lot further than the average human being? Or bench press more?

What are their athletic qualities?

 

[SumYungGai]

I think Fognini has more strength overall, so he can blast groundies when he feels like it. I mean do you remember last years USO against Nadal? Dude went off. Even when out of position and leaning. With Nishikori I think it's more great timing, technique, and positioning that allows him to hit his amazing shots.

 

[MotoboXer]

More quick-itch muscle fibers innit

 

[HipRotation]

Fognini's strokes are much more compact, very little in the backswing, and has possibly one of the most compact two-hander in the game. Very straight, fluid motion.

Nishikori is more on the baseline and takes things early especially on his backhand which nearly always looks like he's swinging too low and pulling up and stepping backwards, whenever he does it it looks like the ball's going to go in the net but he times it somehow that makes it go over the net always with good pace.

I'd give Fognini the power but Nishikori has the angle and more ability to create opinions.

 

[Red Rick]

Decent comparison. I think Fog is the player most similar to Nishikori in terms of how he should play. I really think Fognini is more talented, he can hit so well with no backswing, and he has godly touch when he's on. Shame he's mentally so vulnerable, but otoh, we need our headcases from time to time.

 

[Tenez!]

Fognini-Nadal USO 2015 (last 2 sets)
Fognini-Murray Davis Cup QF 2014

When Fabio's on, he just feeds on those high-bouncing balls. Mind-boggling low-percentage shots.
Nishikori plays it safer, and I don't remember ever being stunned at how hard he hit the ball, except USO 2014 against Djokovic, last two sets. (Still a remarkable player by any standard)