Dick Crealy has found hard courts difficult, recording 36–49 across 85 matches (42.4%). The numbers point to a surface that has not consistently suited the game — a key area of opportunity on the calendar.

At Grand Slam level (Australian Open & US Open): 1–1 across just 2 matches — still very early days at this level on hard.

3 semifinals on hard without yet reaching a final — consistent deep runs that show the ability to string together wins across a full draw, with the step to the final still to come. 9 quarterfinals adds further depth to that picture.

vs. Top 10 on hard: 0–5 (0.0%, 5 matches). Top 10 opponents have represented a clear ceiling on hard; addressing that deficit is the single biggest lever for improving the overall record here.

By format on hard — best-of-five: 6–3 (66.7%); best-of-three: 30–46 (39.5%). Significantly better in five-set matches — a strong physical profile on hard that tends to tell as matches and tournaments progress.

Best season: 1976 — 6–3 (66.7%) from 9 matches. The best single-season display to date — a useful reference point as the hard record continues to develop.