right and even when you factor in that there are breaks in a 3-4 hour match, it's still more moving than 38 mins of play time during a basketball game. There are even breaks during the 38 mins of play time so the 38 mins a player is on court, it isn't constant running. What you mention about the mental aspect of making decisions on your own, is also a factor, can take it's toll mentally. The fact is b-ball players also get a long extended break during off-season, there is none in tennis. It's no surprise virtually every tennis player you can think off has had injuries, some bad injuries. Also, how many times have we seen world class tennis players lose a match due to exhaustion right after playing a 3 hour match the day before? happens all the time, their bodies can't handle it, even being super fit. How many times have we seen a b-ball player be exhausted the game after a previous game? never happens, they are always fresh. When you factor in the amount of injuries, the # of times players succumb to exhaustion (mental and physical), evidence suggests tennis more physically taxing. Don't get me wrong, basketball is workout, i used to play a lot.. it is a heck of a workout but like i've said before, i have never felt more exhausted than after playing a 3 set battle against a consistent base liner. I've had to default tennis matches due to this...
Athleticism is another story but what i say about height is also true, height does make people seem more impressive. Would've a 6'1 Jordon or 6'1 Lebron done as well? even with same speed, leaping ability (same athletcism), i would argue hell no. When you are tall and athletic it makes you more impressive, especially on a b-ball court where rim is at 10 feet. It's unfair to compare Lebron to Nadal, he makes Nadal look like a little baby and this creates an illusion. Lebron may be more athletic than Nadal but make him 6'1 and the difference diminishes substantially.