Loudest grunters in women's tennis

For years, folks have been making noise about the grunting in women’s tennis.

Serena Williams claims that she isn't distracted by her opponent's screams, but others, like Caroline Wozniacki and Martina Navratalova, believe it to be a form of cheating.

Studies have shown that expelling breath forcefully can stimulate muscles and improve performance. In fact one specific tennis study showed that the effects of grunting could increase serve and forehand power by 4.5 MPH.

Nevertheless, fans at this year’s US Open will be treated to some of the game’s loudest grunting, with players like Victoria Azarenka and Maria Sharapova both clocking in at above 100 decibels, about the same as a jackhammer.

The loudest grunter? Portugal’s Michelle Larcher de Brito, reaching a peak of around 110db, the equivalent of roaring lion.